bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of metformin pretreatment for stroke severity: A propensity score matching study
Authors: Zhang Bowei , Silverman Scott , Schwammn Lee H. , Ji Xunming , Singhal Aneesh B. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackground and ObjectiveMetformin pretreatment might have neuroprotective effects. We aimed to determine the therapeutic effects of the antidiabetic medication metformin on ischemic stroke severity and discharge outcomes.MethodsWe analyzed data on 1303 ischemic stroke patients who were on antidiabetic medications from the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center dataset (n = 8943, 2012–2022). We applied propensity score matching (PSM) and inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analyses to investigate the effect of current usage of metformin (versus alternate antidiabetic treatment) on acute stroke clinical severity and discharge outcomes.ResultsOf the 1303 patients who were on antidiabetic medications at the time of stroke admission, 730 (56%) were taking metformin. Metformin users were younger and more frequently had hypertension, whereas less frequently had prior CAD, AFib, and chronic kidney disease. The clinical features and laboratory values of the two groups were evenly distributed after PSM. Metformin‐treated patients had statistically significant lower stroke severity on admission [National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) (median, interquartile range) 3.0 (1.0–8.0) vs. 4.0 (2.0–11.3), p = 0.011], better functional independence at discharge (modified Rankin scale score 0–2, 36.3% vs. 25.4%, p < 0.001) and less in‐hospital mortality (4.5% vs. 11.3%, p = 0.018). IPTW analysis results were consistent with PSM results.ConclusionsAmong diabetic patients with acute ischemic stroke, metformin appears to confer neuroprotection. Our results extend previous findings to the general stroke population. Stroke patients with diabetes mellitus who were treated with metformin prior to stroke, even when combined with additional antidiabetic medications, experienced less severe strokes upon admission and had better functional outcomes during hospitalization.
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of GS‐3583, a FLT3 agonist Fc fusion protein, from single‐ascending‐dose phase I study in healthy participants
Authors: Dauki Anees M. , Rajakumaraswamy Nishanthan , Trowe Torsten , Weng Winnie , Lin Kai‐Wen , Elboudjwarej Emon , Qin Ann Ran‐Ran , Schwabe Christian , Kuhne Michelle R. , Othman Ahmed A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractConventional dendritic cells subtype 1 (cDC1) play a vital role in the priming and expansion of tumor‐specific CD8+ T cells and their recruitment to tumor microenvironment. However, cDC1s are often underrepresented in the microenvironment. Systemic administration of Fms‐like tyrosine kinase 3 ligand, a hematopoietic growth factor that binds to FLT3 on myeloid and lymphoid progenitor cells, leads to cDC1 expansion in the periphery and recruitment into the microenvironment. FLT3 pathway stimulation using GS‐3583, a novel FLT3 agonistic Fc fusion protein, has the potential to promote T‐cell mediated antitumor activity. This was a first‐in‐human, placebo‐controlled study of GS‐3583 in healthy participants to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamic (PD) of escalating single doses (75–2000 μg) of GS‐3583. Each dose cohort enrolled 8–12 healthy participants who received GS‐3583 or placebo as single IV infusion at 3:1 ratio. As part of the PD evaluation, the changes in the number of cDC1 cells were investigated. GS‐3583 was well‐tolerated in healthy participants up to the highest evaluated dose (2000 μg). There have been no serious or grade III or higher adverse events. PK analysis suggested a dose‐dependent increase in GS‐3583 exposure with target‐mediated disposition characteristics at low doses. PD analysis shows that administration of GS‐3583 resulted in transient, dose‐dependent increases in cDC1 cells that returned to baseline within 3 weeks of drug administration. The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of GS‐3583 following single dosing were characterized in this study which enabled subsequent phase Ib assessments in patients with advanced solid tumors.
Oral cancer screening using cytopathology: An advanced proposal with the Bethesda classification
Authors: Lepper Tatiana Wannmacher , Ferreira Prigol Renata , Ferrares Espinosa Ana Laura , Guedes Igor Cavalcante , Maciel Rönnau Maikel , Daroit Natália Batista , Haas Alex Nogueira , Visioli Fernanda , Menezes de Oliveira Neto Manuel , Rados Pantelis Varvaki 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundOral cancer screening requires analysis capable of detecting changes preceding the clinical manifestation. Oral cytopathology studies as an oral cancer screening have shown promising results. This study aims to evaluate the use of cytopathology in a quali‐quantitative analysis using Papanicoloau staining.MethodsFour experimental groups were evaluated: control (CG), exposed to carcinogens (EG), potentially malignant disorder with and without epithelial dysplasia (D‐OPMDG and ND‐OPMDG) and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCCG). Oral smears were collected using a Cytobrush® and conventional exfoliative cytology.ResultsOral Papanicolaou smears from 143 individuals were analysed in 8100 images. Qualitatively, non‐lesional groups exhibited minimal suspected cases (20% in CG and 5% in EG), in the OPMD groups the ability to identify altered cells was low (40% in D‐OPMDG and 0% in ND‐OPMDG). Conversely, a notable 100% accuracy was achieved in the OSCCG. Quantitatively, a higher percentage of anucleated and a lower percentage of intermediate cells were observed in the OPMDG; a higher proportion of parabasal/suspicious cells was observed in OSCCG. The optimal threshold for improved accuracy in detecting suspected malignancies occurs when the count of parabasal/suspicious cells exceeds 8/100 cells examined. Cytomorphometric analysis revealed a higher nucleus/cytoplasm ratio (N/C) in OSCCG, with a best cutoff point indicating enhanced accuracy in discerning suspected malignancies when exceeding 17% of cells exhibiting this elevated ratio.ConclusionIt is possible to suggest updates in cytomorphometric and quantitative analysis in the modified Bethesda system for the oral cavity including objective criteria in the risk classification, therefore improving oral cancer screening.
Exploring the therapeutic potential of topical probiotics in dermatological diseases: a comprehensive review of clinical studies
Authors: Tamer Funda , Kekilli Murat 
Published: August 2024

SummaryThe gastrointestinal tract may contribute to the regulation of systemic inflammation and skin diseases due to the balance between the pathogenic, opportunistic, and beneficial bacterial species it contains. External supplementation of beneficial bacteria, besides its known positive effect in the treatment of digestive system diseases, also has different favorable effects such as accelerated wound healing, suppression of inflammation, lower infection risk, and reduced antibiotic requirement. It has been reported that oral use of probiotics may be effective in the treatment of skin diseases such as acne, psoriasis, and atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, topical administration of probiotics may create a positive bacterial balance, eliminate pathological conditions, and thus have a favorable impact on the management of skin diseases. Interest in the effect of the skin microbiome and topical probiotics in the treatment of skin diseases has increased recently. Herein, 21 clinical studies and a case report in the PubMed database on the use of topical probiotics in dermatological diseases were evaluated.
Percutaneous coronary revascularization versus medical therapy in chronic coronary syndromes: An updated meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Panuccio Giuseppe , Carabetta Nicole , Torella Daniele , De Rosa Salvatore 
Published: August 2024

AbstractIntroductionCoronary artery disease (CAD) is a main cause of morbidity and mortality. The effectiveness of coronary revascularization in chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) is still debated. Our recent study showed the superiority of coronary revascularization over optimal medical therapy (OMT) in reducing cardiovascular (CV) mortality and myocardial infarction (MI). The recent publication of the ORBITA‐2 trial suggested superiority of percutaneous coronary revascularization (PCI) in reducing angina and improving quality of life. Therefore, we aimed to provide an updated meta‐analysis evaluating the impact of PCI on both clinical outcomes and angina in CCS.MethodsRelevant studies were screened in PubMed/Medline until 08/01/2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PCI to OMT in CCS were selected. The primary outcome was CV death. Secondary outcomes were MI, all‐cause mortality, stroke, major bleeding and angina severity.ResultsNineteen RCTs involving 8616 patients were included. Median follow‐up duration was 3.3 years. Revascularization significantly reduced CV death (4.2% vs. 5.5%; OR = .77; 95% CI .62–.96, p = .02). Subgroup analyses favoured revascularization in patients without chronic total occlusions (CTOs) (p = .052) and those aged <65 years (p = .02). Finally, a follow‐up duration beyond 3 years showed increased benefit of coronary revascularization (p = .04). Secondary outcomes analyses showed no significant differences, except for a lower angina severity in the revascularization group according to the Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) (p = .04) and to the Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS) classification (p = .005).ConclusionsPCI compared to OMT significantly reduces CV mortality and angina severity, improving quality of life in CCS patients. This benefit was larger without CTOs, in patients aged <65 years and with follow‐up duration beyond 3 years.
Skin inflammatory signatures, as measured by disordered spatial redness patterns, predict current and future skin ageing attributes
Authors: Omotezako Tatsuya , Zhao Wenzhu , Rodrigues MyriamRubecca , Ehrman Matthew , Deng Denny , Lau HiuFung , Hakozaki Tomohiro 
Published: August 2024

AbstractFacial skin redness can be an indicator of skin inflammation, however the physiological connection between facial redness and inflammatory status, as well as its role in age‐related skin changes, remains poorly understood. This study aims to investigate the association between the pattern of facial skin redness and biological inflammatory status, as well as age‐related changes occurring in the skin. Four studies were conducted recruiting healthy Northern Asian females. Disordered spatial patterns of facial skin redness signals were assessed using image analysis, i.e., the a* gradient algorithm, which quantifies the disordered shape and pattern of localized redness signals on facial skin. This redness pattern was compared with (1) inflammatory protein markers (IL‐1Ra/ IL‐1α and IL‐8) measured from stripped corneocyte samples, (2) gene expression profiles obtained through transcriptome analysis using skin biopsy samples, and (3) the distribution pattern of blood vessel measured using a photoacoustic microscope. The association between the skin redness pattern and current and future ageing‐related skin changes was examined through a longitudinal study tracking the same subjects for 10 years. A significant correlation was observed between the a* gradient and the levels of inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1Ra/IL‐1α and IL‐8). Transcriptome analysis revealed upregulation of genes related to acute inflammation, chronic inflammation, cellular senescence, and angiogenesis in subjects with higher a* gradients. The high a* gradient group exhibited an extension of blood vessel diameter and increased blood vessel density, while the medium a* gradient group only exhibited blood vessel extension. Lastly, the 10‐year longitudinal study demonstrated that the a* gradient was associated with current and future skin ageing‐related attributes, such as increased skin texture and wrinkle formation. The spatial pattern of localized redness on the skin reflects the biological inflammatory status, and this inflammatory condition helps predict current and future age‐related skin changes.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons exposure associated with increased risk of psoriasis
Authors: Zhou Shu , Lei Li , Jiang Ling , Fu Chuhan , Wen Yaqing , Huang Jiangfeng , Zhang Keyi , Huang Jinhua , Chen Jing , Zeng Qinghai 
Published: August 2024

AbstractPsoriasis is considered to be multifactorial, with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its development. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widespread in the environment, originating from sources such as cigarette smoke, exhaust emissions, grilled foods, smoked foods and urban air. Researchs have established a link between PAHs exposure and autoimmune disorders; however, specific effects of PAHs on psoriasis remain underexplored. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between PAHs exposure and susceptibility to psoriasis. We analysed eight monohydroxy PAHs (1‐Hydroxynaphthalene (1‐NAP), 2‐Hydroxynaphthalene (2‐NAP), 3‐Hydroxyfluorene (3‐FLU), 2‐Hydroxyfluorene (2‐FLU), 1‐Hydroxyphenanthrene (1‐PHE), 1‐Hydroxypyrene (1‐PYR), 2‐Hydroxyphenanthrene (2‐PHE) and 3‐Hydroxyphenanthrene (3‐PHE)) in 5996 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). We employed multivariate logistic regression, trend analysis, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis to investigate the relationship between PAHs exposure and psoriasis risk. Multivariate logistic regression and trend analysis revealed that monohydroxy PAHs, including 2‐NAP, 3‐FLU, 2‐FLU and the mixture of 2‐PHE and 3‐PHE, are associated with an increased risk of psoriasis. Additionally, WQS regression showed a significant positive correlation between combined exposure to monohydroxy PAHs and psoriasis risk, with the mixture of 2‐PHE and 3‐PHE (47.3%) being the most influential factor. RCS regression further corroborated these findings. Specifically, 2‐FLU can increase the expression of psoriasis‐related inflammatory factors in HaCaT cells. In conclusion, PAHs exposure increases the risk of developing psoriasis. Efforts to reduce PAHs levels in the environment and minimise exposure are crucial for public health strategies aimed at preventing psoriasis.
The activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein (Arc) functions in a cell type‐ and sex‐specific manner in the adult nucleus accumbens to regulate non‐contingent cocaine behaviors
Authors: Wood Daniel J. , Huebschman Jessica L. , Martinez Dalia , Tsvetkov Evgeny , Snyder Kirsten , Tjhia Raymond , Kumar Jaswinder , Hughes Brandon W. , Taniguchi Makoto , Smith Laura N. , Cowan Christopher W. , Penrod Rachel D. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractRepeated cocaine use produces adaptations in brain function that contribute to long‐lasting behaviors associated with cocaine use disorder (CUD). In rodents, the activity‐regulated cytoskeleton‐associated protein (Arc) can regulate glutamatergic synaptic transmission, and cocaine regulates Arc expression and subcellular localization in multiple brain regions, including the nucleus accumbens (NAc)—a brain region linked to CUD‐related behavior. We show here that repeated, non‐contingent cocaine administration in global Arc KO male mice produced a dramatic hypersensitization of cocaine locomotor responses and drug experience‐dependent sensitization of conditioned place preference (CPP). In contrast to the global Arc KO mice, viral‐mediated reduction of Arc in the adult male, but not female, NAc (shArcNAc) reduced both CPP and cocaine‐induced locomotor activity, but without altering basal miniature or evoked glutamatergic synaptic transmission. Interestingly, cell type‐specific knockdown of Arc in D1 dopamine receptor‐expressing NAc neurons reduced cocaine‐induced locomotor sensitization, but not cocaine CPP; whereas, Arc knockdown in D2 dopamine receptor‐expressing NAc neurons reduced cocaine CPP, but not cocaine‐induced locomotion. Taken together, our findings reveal that global, developmental loss of Arc produces hypersensitized cocaine responses; however, these effects cannot be explained by Arc's function in the adult mouse NAc since Arc is required in a cell type‐ and sex‐specific manner to support cocaine‐context associations and locomotor responses.
Cr2AlC ceramic–modified carbon/quartz fiber composites with enhanced ablation resistance and thermal insulation
Authors: Zhang Hao , Liu Guixiang , Dai Bo , Fu Shuai , Wan Detian , Bao Yiwang , Chu Longsheng , Feng Qingguo , Hu Chunfeng 
Published: August 2024

AbstractCarbon‐bonded carbon fiber composites (CBCF) are renowned for their lightweight and thermal insulation properties. However, the brittleness and susceptibility to oxidation hinder the widespread application of CBCF. In this work, the carbon‐bonded carbon/quartz hybrid fiber composites (CBCQF) were prepared by pressure filtration and modified by Cr2AlC ceramics. The microstructure, mechanical properties, thermal insulation, and ablation behaviors were investigated. Cr2AlC ceramics notably enhanced the compressive strength of CBCQF in the XY direction and reduced the room‐temperature thermal conductivity in the Z direction. Most importantly, Cr2AlC ceramics significantly improved the ablation resistance of CBCQF. When 40% Cr2AlC ceramics were added, the linear and mass ablation rates of CBCQF were reduced by 38.0% and 93.2%, respectively, compared to the reference sample. Moreover, the study of ablation mechanisms revealed that the improvement in ablation resistance was primarily derived from the formation of the surface protective oxides as well as the reinforcement of oxidation resistance. Overall, this study presents a promising avenue for the application of Cr2AlC ceramics and the modification of fiber composites.
Exploring the differences in sauce‐flavour Daqu from different regions and its contribution to Baijiu brewing based on microbial communities and flavours
Authors: Li Weiwei , Han Meiyue , Zhang Hui , Zhang Qiumei , Lang Ying , Hu Shenglan , Li Xiuting , Sun Baoguo 
Published: August 2024

SummaryDaqu is an essential saccharification and fermentation agent in Baijiu brewing, and its characteristics affect the yield, quality, and flavour of Baijiu. The fundamental reason is that Daqu can provide rich microbial resources, complex enzyme systems, and raw materials for the Baijiu brewing process. In this study, three sauce‐flavour Daqu from two production areas, Beijing and Guizhou, were selected to focus on discussing and analysing the main contributions of sauce‐flavour Daqu itself to Baijiu brewing without interference from the external environment. The differences in the flavour composition and microbial communities of three Daqu were analysed. Microbial biomarkers were analysed by Lefse multilevel discriminant analysis for three Daqu. We found that different regions have their own biomarkers. Citrobacter, Rhodococcus, and Pseudomonas, were biomarkers of HD Daqu. Oceanobacillus, Aspergillus and Pichia were biomarkers of MT Daqu. Bacillus, Pediococcus and Fusarium were biomarkers of WM Daqu. A solid‐state simulation fermentation experiment was carried out to analyse changes in the flavour composition and microbial communities of fermented grains after 35 days of fermentation. The results showed that the microbial communities and the flavour composition in the Daqu and fermented samples differed significantly. The dominant microorganism genus evolved from Citrobacter, Rhodococcus, and Thermomyces to Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, and Pichia HD sample. The dominant microorganism genus in WM sample changed from Virgibacillus, Oceanobacillus, and Thermomyces to Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, and Pichia. Whereas in MT sample, the dominant microorganism genus evolved from Virgibacillus, Kroppenstedtia, and Thermomyces to Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, and Pichia. Additionally, the main flavour composition also changed after fermentation, which in the late fermentation period were phenylethyl alcohol, ethyl palmitate, tetramethylpyrazine, and 3‐methylbutanoic acid. These findings can provide support to explain the importance and contribution of sauce‐flavour Daqu in Baijiu brewing scientifically.
Plasma‐flash sintering: Metastable phase stabilization and evidence of ionized species
Authors: Gil‐González Eva , Taibi Ahmed , Perejón Antonio , Sánchez‐Jiménez Pedro E. , Pérez‐Maqueda Luis A. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe first demonstration of plasma‐flash sintering (PFS) is presented in this work. PFS is performed under a low‐pressure atmosphere that consecutively generates plasma and flash events. It is shown, by using several combined characterization techniques, that PFS stabilizes metastable phases on the surface of the material, which may be partially, but not solely, attributed to the generation of oxygen vacancies, and induces the absorption of ionized species, if a reactive atmosphere is employed. Even though additional research is required to understand the fundamentals of PFS, it is evidenced its potential to be used as a material surface engineering tool, which may widen the technological capabilities of flash sintering.
Barriers and facilitators for reducing low‐value home‐based nursing care: A qualitative exploratory study among homecare professionals
Authors: Cremers Milou , Wendt Benjamin , Huisman‐de Waal Getty , van Bodegom‐Vos Leti , van Dulmen Simone A. , Schipper Elise , van Dijk Monique , Ista Erwin 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAimTo explore barriers and facilitators for reducing low‐value home‐based nursing care.DesignQualitative exploratory study.MethodSeven focus group interviews and two individual interviews were conducted with homecare professionals, managers and quality improvement staff members within seven homecare organizations. Data were deductively analysed using the Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases checklist.ResultsBarriers perceived by homecare professionals included lack of knowledge and skills, such as using care aids, interactions between healthcare professionals and general practitioners creating expectations among clients. Facilitators perceived included reflecting on provided care together with colleagues, clearly communicating agreements and expectations towards clients. Additionally, clients' and relatives' behaviour could potentially hinder reduction. In contrast, clients' motivation to be independent and involving relatives can promote reduction. Lastly, non‐reimbursement and additional costs of care aids were perceived as barriers. Support from organization and management for the reduction of care was considered as facilitator.ConclusionUnderstanding barriers and facilitators experienced by homecare professionals in reducing low‐value home‐based nursing care is crucial. Enhancing knowledge and skills, fostering cross‐professional collaboration, involving relatives and motivating clients' self‐care can facilitate reduction of low‐value home‐based nursing care.Implications for profession and patient care: De‐implementing low‐value home‐based nursing care offers opportunities for more appropriate care and inclusion of clients on waitlists.ImpactAddressing barriers with tailored strategies can successfully de‐implement low‐value home‐based nursing care.Reporting MethodThe Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used.No patient or public contribution.