bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deciphering the mediating role of CXCL10 in hypothyroidism-induced idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in European ancestry: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xing Xiaoming , Zhao Cong , Cai Song , Wang Jing , Zhang Jing , Sun Fang , Huang Mao , Zhang Lishan 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundIdiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a lethal lung disease characterized by progressive fibrosis, leading to impaired gas exchange and high mortality. The etiology of IPF is complex, with potential links to autoimmune disorders such as hypothyroidism. This study explores the relationship between hypothyroidism and IPF, focusing on the mediating role of plasma proteins.MethodsA two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach was employed to determine the impact of hypothyroidism on IPF and the mediating role of 4,907 plasma proteins, all in individuals of European ancestry. Sensitivity analyses, external validation, and reverse causality tests were conducted to ensure the robustness of the findings. Additionally, the function of causal SNPs was evaluated through gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses.ConclusionThe findings suggest that hypothyroidism, through altered plasma protein expression, particularly CXCL10, may contribute to the pathogenesis of IPF. This novel insight highlights the potential of CXCL10 as a therapeutic target in IPF, especially in patients with hypothyroidism. The study emphasizes the need for further research into the complex interplay between autoimmune disorders and IPF, with a view towards developing targeted interventions for IPF management.
Next-generation sequencing reveals additional HLA class I and class II alleles associated with type 1 diabetes and age at onset
Authors: Robino Antonietta , Bevilacqua Elena , Aldegheri Luana , Conti Andrea , Bazzo Valentina , Tornese Gianluca , Catamo Eulalia 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionType 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease with an significant genetic component, played mainly by the HLA class II genes. Although evidence on the role of HLA class I genes in developing type 1 diabetes and its onset have emerged, current HLA screening is limited to determining DR3 and DR4 haplotypes. This study aimed to investigate the role of HLA genes on type 1 diabetes risk and age of onset by extensive typing.MethodsThis study included 115 children and young adults with type 1 diabetes for whom typing of HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, -DRB3/4/5, -DQA1, -DQB1, -DPA1 and -DPB1 genes was conducted using Next Generation Sequencing.ResultsWe observed that 13% of type 1 diabetes subjects had non-classical HLA haplotypes that predispose to diabetes. We also found that compared to type 1 diabetes subjects with classical HLA haplotypes, non-classical HLA subjects had a significantly higher frequency of HLA-B*39:06:02 (p-value=0.01) and HLA-C*07:02:01 (p-value=0.03) alleles, known to be involved in activating the immune response. Non-classical HLA subjects also presented peculiar clinical features compared to classical HLA subjects, such as multiple diabetic antibodies and the absence of other autoimmune diseases (i.e., coeliac disease and thyroiditis). We also observed that subjects with early onset had a higher frequency of DQ2/DQ8 genotype than late-onset individuals. Moreover, subjects with late-onset had a higher frequency of alleles HLA-B*27 (p-value=0.003), HLA-C*01:02:01 (p-value=0.027) and C*02:02:02 (p-value=0.01), known to be associated with increased protection against viral infections.DiscussionThis study reveals a broader involvement of the HLA locus in the development and onset of type 1 diabetes, providing insights into new possible disease prevention and management strategies.
Clinical efficacy and safety of secukinumab in the treatment of generalized pustular psoriasis in the pediatric population: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Wei Kebo , Li Ping , He Xin , Yang Dongyue , Lang Jing , Lai Lingyao , Xiao Min 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundGeneralized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a severe type of psoriasis. The current treatment primarily relies on corticosteroids and immunosuppressants. In recent years, biologics have been increasingly utilized in the treatment of this disease, and have demonstrated good clinical efficacy. However, children and adolescents are primarily treated with immunosuppressants, which have limited clinical application due to the serious side effects they may cause. At the same time, the effectiveness of current treatments is unsatisfactory. Secukinumab has been widely reported to be effective and safe in treating this disease. However, there are still insufficient data on its use in treating GPP in children.ObjectiveTo conduct a systematic review of the existing literature on the use of secukinumab for treating generalized pustular psoriasis in children and adolescents, and to evaluate its clinical effectiveness and safety.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review of all the literature reporting on the treatment of GPP in children and adolescents with secukinumab.ResultsA total of 7 papers (46 patients) were included in this study. After 12 weeks of treatment, all 46 participants were able to achieve a GPPASI score of 90 or higher, with approximately 96% of patients achieving complete clearing of the lesions (GPPASI 100 or JDA0). Adverse events were reported in 8 patients, the rate of adverse reactions was approximately 17%.ConclusionThe treatment of GPP in children and adolescents with secukinumab has a rapid onset of action and a high safety profile. However, the results of the literature may be influenced by publication bias.
Preoperative bimodal imaging evaluation in finding histological correlations of in situ, superficial spreading and nodular melanoma
Authors: Negrutiu Mircea , Danescu Sorina , Popa Theodor , Rogojan Liliana , Vesa Stefan Cristian , Baican Adrian 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to correlate the diagnostic criteria described in dermoscopy, ultrasonography (US), and histology of the most common types of cutaneous melanoma (CM).MethodsWe conducted a prospective study including 40 CM cases, which were analyzed by dermoscopy using the Delta 30 dermatoscope and Vidix 4.0 videodermoscope, by ultrasound (US) using a high-resolution 20 MHz linear probe, along with histopathological analysis.ResultsThe study involved 40 patients with histopathologically confirmed CM, comprising 10 nodular melanomas (NM), 21 superficial spreading melanomas (SSM), and nine in situ melanomas (MIS). US measurements of tumor thickness exhibited strong correlations with the histopathological Breslow index (BI), particularly in the NM and SSM groups. A notable correlation was observed between the presence of ulceration in histopathology and ultrasonography. Dermoscopic analysis revealed significant associations between specific features and CM types. For instance, the presence of an atypical network, irregular globules, irregular dots, prominent skin margins, angulated lines/polygons, dotted and short linear vessels, and negative network correlated with a median BI ≤ 0.5 mm. Conversely, the presence of blue–white veil, atypical vessels, blue–black color, and milky red color were associated with a median BI ≥ 2.3 mm. Furthermore, regression observed in histopathology correlated with regression identified in dermoscopy, we also found statistical correlations between the presence of vascularization at US with the high Clark level, and the presence of prominent skin markings at dermoscopy. The presence of histopathological regression was more frequently associated with tumors that had precise margins, absent vascularization and with those that did not have ulceration on US. The high mitotic rate was associated with tumors that presented imprecise margins, increased vascularization and US detectable ulceration.ConclusionInnovative CM diagnosis using non-invasive methods like dermoscopy and ultrasound may enhance accuracy and treatment guidance by assessing lesion characteristics.
Maternal puerperal infection caused by Parabacteroides goldsteinii: a case report
Authors: Peng Liwei , Chen Xiaomin , Wang Zhenhui , Yi Lu , Jin Zhengjiang 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundParabacteroides goldsteinii, a member of the Parabacteroides genus, was initially discovered in the feces and abdominal tissue of patients with appendicitis, peritonitis, and abdominal abscesses. In recent years, P. goldsteinii has been widely regarded as a gut probiotic, and human infections have been extremely rare. In 2010, P. goldsteinii was first isolated from the blood culture of a patient with abdominal infection, confirming its ability to cause bacteremia. In this study, we report a rare case of puerperal infection with septic shock caused by P. goldsteinii infection in a pregnant woman.Case presentationA 31-year-old female experienced perineal lacerations, cervical lacerations, and postpartum hemorrhage during childbirth. Nine days postpartum, the patient developed septic shock, and P. goldsteinii infection was identified through blood culture and mass spectrometry. We administered broad-spectrum antibiotics, including meropenem/nalidixic acid and piperacillin tazobactam, intravenously, but the antimicrobial effect was not satisfactory. Upon ultrasound examination, we identified a focus of infection in the patient’s uterus. Subsequently, uterine curettage was performed, followed by uterine cavity irrigation with metronidazole and intramuscular injection of gentamicin and dexamethasone. Following treatment, the patient’s physiological parameters gradually returned to normal, and she was discharged 30 days after admission.ConclusionParabacteroides goldsteinii bacteraemia is extremely rare, and clinically, the postinfection toxicity of this bacterium appears to be significant. In this report, we review the research history of P. goldsteinii and relevant infection cases, aiming to enhance awareness among clinical practitioners, particularly obstetricians and gynecologists, regarding P. goldsteinii bloodstream infections, facilitating early diagnosis and timely treatment.
The impact of vitamin E, vitamin B6, and niacin intake on cataract incidence based on NHANES 2005-2008 data
Authors: Zhuang Guo-Bin , Li Xiang , Wu Shi-Nan , Zhang Si-Qi , Zhang Zhi-Jie , Dong Nuo 
Published: August 2024

ObjectiveThis investigation aims to elucidate the correlations between dietary intakes of vitamin E, B6, and niacin and the incidence of cataracts, utilizing the comprehensive NHANES 2005–2008 dataset to affirm the prophylactic roles of these nutrients against cataract formation.MethodsUsing data from the NHANES 2005–2008 cycles, this analysis concentrated on 7,247 subjects after exclusion based on incomplete dietary or cataract data. The identification of cataracts was determined through participants’ self-reported ophthalmic surgical history. Nutritional intake was gauged using the automated multiple pass method, and the data were analyzed using logistic and quantile regression analyses to investigate the relationship between vitamin consumption and cataract prevalence.ResultsOur analysis identified significant inverse associations between the intake of vitamins E, B6, and niacin and the risk of cataract development. Specifically, higher intakes of vitamin B6 (OR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.76–0.96, p = 0.0073) and niacin (OR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.97–1.00, p = 0.0067) in the top quartile were significantly associated with a reduced likelihood of cataract occurrence. Vitamin E intake showed a consistent reduction in cataract risk across different intake levels (OR = 0.96, 95% CI = 0.94–0.99, p = 0.0087), demonstrating a nonlinear inverse correlation.ConclusionThe outcomes indicate that elevated consumption of vitamin B6 and niacin, in conjunction with regular vitamin E intake, may have the potential to delay or prevent cataract genesis. These results suggest a novel nutritional strategy for cataract prevention and management, advocating that focused nutrient supplementation could be instrumental in preserving eye health and reducing the risk of cataracts. Further research is recommended to validate these findings and establish optimal dosages for maximum benefit.
Construction of a risk prediction model for lung infection after chemotherapy in lung cancer patients based on the machine learning algorithm
Authors: Sun Tao , Liu Jun , Yuan Houqin , Li Xin , Yan Hui 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThe objective of this study was to create and validate a machine learning (ML)-based model for predicting the likelihood of lung infections following chemotherapy in patients with lung cancer.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on a cohort of 502 lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Data on age, Body Mass Index (BMI), underlying disease, chemotherapy cycle, number of hospitalizations, and various blood test results were collected from medical records. We used the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE) to handle unbalanced data. Feature screening was performed using the Boruta algorithm and The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO). Subsequently, six ML algorithms, namely Logistic Regression (LR), Random Forest (RF), Gaussian Naive Bayes (GNB), Multi-layer Perceptron (MLP), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) were employed to train and develop an ML model using a 10-fold cross-validation methodology. The model’s performance was evaluated through various metrics, including the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, calibration curve, decision curves, clinical impact curve, and confusion matrix. In addition, model interpretation was performed by the Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) analysis to clarify the importance of each feature of the model and its decision basis. Finally, we constructed nomograms to make the predictive model results more readable.ResultsThe integration of Boruta and LASSO methodologies identified Gender, Smoke, Drink, Chemotherapy cycles, pleural effusion (PE), Neutrophil-lymphocyte count ratio (NLR), Neutrophil-monocyte count ratio (NMR), Lymphocytes (LYM) and Neutrophil (NEUT) as significant predictors. The LR model demonstrated superior performance compared to alternative ML algorithms, achieving an accuracy of 81.80%, a sensitivity of 81.1%, a specificity of 82.5%, an F1 score of 81.6%, and an AUC of 0.888(95%CI(0.863-0.911)). Furthermore, the SHAP method identified Chemotherapy cycles and Smoke as the primary decision factors influencing the ML model’s predictions. Finally, this study successfully constructed interactive nomograms and dynamic nomograms.ConclusionThe ML algorithm, combining demographic and clinical factors, accurately predicted post-chemotherapy lung infections in cancer patients. The LR model performed well, potentially improving early detection and treatment in clinical practice.
Dual TTK/PLK1 inhibition has potent anticancer activity in TNBC as monotherapy and in combination
Authors: Zanini Elisa , Forster-Gross Nicole , Bachmann Felix , Brüngger Adrian , McSheehy Paul , Litherland Karine , Burger Karin , Groner Anna C. , Roceri Mila , Bury Luc , Stieger Martin , Willemsen-Seegers Nicole , de Man Jos , Vu-Pham Diep , van Riel Helma W. E. , Zaman Guido J. R. , Buijsman Rogier C. , Kellenberger Laurenz , Lane Heidi A. 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundThreonine tyrosine kinase (TTK) and polo-like kinase 1 (PLK1) are common essential kinases that collaborate in activating the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) at the kinetochore, ensuring appropriate chromosome alignment and segregation prior to mitotic exit. Targeting of either TTK or PLK1 has been clinically evaluated in cancer patients; however, dual inhibitors have not yet been pursued. Here we present the in vitro and in vivo characterization of a first in class, dual TTK/PLK1 inhibitor (BAL0891).MethodsMechanism of action studies utilized biochemical kinase and proteomics-based target-engagement assays. Cellular end-point assays included immunoblot- and flow cytometry-based cell cycle analyses and SAC integrity evaluation using immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence approaches. Anticancer activity was assessed in vitro using cell growth assays and efficacy was evaluated, alone and in combination with paclitaxel and carboplatin, using mouse models of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC).ResultsBAL0891 elicits a prolonged effect on TTK, with a transient activity on PLK1. This unique profile potentiates SAC disruption, forcing tumor cells to aberrantly exit mitosis with faster kinetics than observed with a TTK-specific inhibitor. Broad anti-proliferative activity was demonstrated across solid tumor cell lines in vitro. Moreover, intermittent intravenous single-agent BAL0891 treatment of the MDA-MB-231 mouse model of TNBC induced profound tumor regressions associated with prolonged TTK and transient PLK1 in-tumor target occupancy. Furthermore, differential tumor responses across a panel of thirteen TNBC patient-derived xenograft models indicated profound anticancer activity in a subset (~40%). Using a flexible dosing approach, pathologically confirmed cures were observed in combination with paclitaxel, whereas synergy with carboplatin was schedule dependent.ConclusionsDual TTK/PLK1 inhibition represents a novel approach for the treatment of human cancer, including TNBC patients, with a potential for potent anticancer activity and a favorable therapeutic index. Moreover, combination approaches may provide an avenue to expand responsive patient populations.
Xiaoyaosan formula augments adjuvant therapy and enhances postoperative breast cancer care
Authors: Wang Chao , Yin Lianfang 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionXiaoyaosan (XYS), a traditional Chinese formula, not only has good antitumor effects but also attenuates distress, anorexia, and quality of life (QoL) by regulating neurology, the microbiota, immunology, and oxidative stress. This study aimed to assess the effect of XYS on QoL, psychological pressure, and spiritual well-being in breast cancer patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy.MethodsThis prospective cohort study enrolled 176 postoperative breast cancer patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy combined with (n = 81) or without (n = 95) XYS for comparison. The Quality-of-Life Questionnaire Core-30 (QLQ-C30), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), University of California Los Angeles (UCLA-LS), and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy–Spiritual Well-being (FACIT–Sp) scores were evaluated before adjuvant chemotherapy (T0) and after the first (T1), second (T2), third (T3), and fourth cycles (T4) of adjuvant chemotherapy.ResultsXYS improved the QLQ-C30 score at T2 (p = 0.043), T3 (p = 0.021), and T4 (p = 0.040) and the QLQ-C30 score at T4 (p = 0.027); moreover, XYS attenuated the QLQ-C30 score at T2 (p = 0.040), T3 (p = 0.023), and T4 (p = 0.027). Regarding distress, XYS reduced the HADS-anxiety score at T2 (p = 0.010), T3 (p = 0.025), and T4 (p = 0.019) and the HADS-defined anxiety score at T3 (p = 0.038). XYS also decreased the HADS-depression score at T2 (p = 0.016), T3 (p = 0.018), and T4 (p = 0.017) and the HADS-defined depression rate at T2 (p = 0.047), T3 (p = 0.012), and T4 (p = 0.013). In addition, XYS decreased the UCLA-LS at T2 (p = 0.023) but enhanced the FACIT-Sp at T2 (p = 0.029) and T4 (p = 0.026). Furthermore, after adjustment via propensity score matching, most of the significant findings remained.DiscussionThe addition of XYS to adjuvant chemotherapy improved QoL, psychological health, and spiritual well-being in breast cancer patients.
The assessment of reliability generalisation of clinician-administered PTSD scale for DSM-5 (CAPS-5): a meta-analysis
Authors: Wojujutari Ajele Kenni , Idemudia Erhabor Sunday , Ugwu Lawrence Ejike 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundThe CAPS-5 is a reliable instrument for assessing PTSD symptoms, demonstrating strong consistency, validity, and reliability after a traumatic event. However, further research is warranted to explore the divergent validity of the CAPS-5 and its adaptation to diverse cultural contexts.ObjectiveIn this meta-analysis, we endeavoured to comprehensively evaluate the reliability generalization of the CAPS-5 across diverse populations and clinical contexts.MethodsA reliability generalization meta-analysis on the psychometric properties of CAPS-5 was conducted, encompassing 15 studies. The original versions’ psychometric properties were systematically retrieved from databases including PubMed, PsychNet, Medline, CHAHL, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, with a focus on studies published between 2013 and 2023. Two independent investigators evaluated study quality using QUADAS-2 and COSMIN RB, pre-registering the protocol in the Prospero database for transparency and minimizing bias risk.ResultsMeta-analysis reveals CAPS-5 global reliability (α = 0.92, 95% CI [0.90, 0.94]), z = 99.44, p &lt; 0.05 across 15 studies, supporting consistent internal consistency. Subscale analysis shows variability in Reexperiencing (α = 0.82), Avoidance (α = 0.68), Cognition and Mood (α = 0.82), and Hyperarousal (α = 0.74), with an overall estimate of 0.77 (95% CI [0.70;0.83]). Language-dependent analysis highlights reliability variations (α range: 0.83 to 0.92) across Brazilian-Portuguese, Dutch, English, French, German, Korean, and Portuguese. Test–retest reliability demonstrates stability (r = 0.82, 95% CI [0.79; 0.85]), with overall convergent validity (r = 0.59, 95% CI [0.50;0.68]).ConclusionThe meta-analysis affirms CAPS-5’s robust global and subscale reliability across studies and languages, with stable test–retest results. Moderator analysis finds no significant impact, yet substantial residual heterogeneity remains unexplained. Our findings contribute intricate insights into the psychometric properties of this instrument, offering a more complete understanding of its utility in PTSD assessment.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023483748.
Investigating adolescent psychological wellbeing in an educational context using PISA 2018 Canadian data
Authors: Liu Yan , Maltais Natasha S. , Milner-Bolotin Marina , Chachashvili-Bolotin Svetlana 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionAdolescent psychological wellbeing has been identified as an important public health priority and one of the major challenges facing young people. However, few studies have examined the wellbeing of Canadian adolescents nationwide in the past decade, and even fewer have focused specifically on immigrant adolescents. This study aims to investigate Canadian adolescent psychological wellbeing (PWB) via nationally representative data from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2018. We explored what social and educational factors were critical in predicting Canadian adolescents' PWB, how adolescents from immigrant families differed from their non-immigrant peers in their wellbeing, and how adolescents' PWB was related to their academic performance.MethodsA total of 22,651 Grade 8 Canadian students who participated PISA 2018 were included in this study (mean age of 15; 49.9% female; 26% immigrant students). Mixed effects modeling was adopted for data analysis.ResultsOur results showed that various social and educational factors were associated with adolescent PWB, but these relationships varied depending on which aspect of PWB was examined. Immigrant adolescents were shown to have higher levels of PWB when student attitudes toward immigrants were more positive. Additionally, most aspects of PWB were important for achievement performance.DiscussionIt is important to develop healthy and supportive school and disciplinary climates that foster students' sense of belonging. To further support the PWB of immigrant adolescents, educators can implement activities and integrate learning materials on cultural diversity into curricula, encouraging students to develop positive attitudes toward immigrants. Our findings on the PWB of Canadian adolescents could provide valuable insights for other countries with diverse populations, particularly those with significant immigrant communities.