bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The impact of oxygen content on Staphylococcus epidermidis pathogenesis in ocular infection based on clinical characteristics, transcriptome and metabolome analysis
Authors: Lv Hongling , Zhang Wenjia , Zhao Zhu , Wei Yingpu , Bao Zhengyilin , Li Yizheng , Hu Zhulin , Deng Deyao , Yuan Wenli 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThis study aims to delineate the etiology and prevalence of isolated pathogens, along with the clinical characteristics of endophthalmitis patients over a 9-year period at hospital in Southwest of China. Additionally, we investigating the metabolic and cellular processes related to environmental factors may offer novel insights into endophthalmitis.MethodsWe analyzed data pertaining to endophthalmitis patients treated at the Affiliated Hospital of Yunnan University from 2015 to 2023. According to our clinical data, we conducted an experiment based on transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis to verify whether environmental factors affect behavior of S. epidermidis by culturating S. epidermidis under oxic and microoxic condition.ResultsIn this study, 2,712 fungi or bacteria strains have been analyzed, gram-positive bacteria constituted 65.08%, with S. epidermidis being the most predominant species (25.55%). Ophthalmic trauma was the primary pathogenic factor for S. epidermidis ocular infections. Regarding fluoroquinolones, S. epidermidis exhibited the higher resistance rate to levofloxacin than moxifloxacin. Moreover, our investigation revealed that S. epidermidis in microoxic environment increase in energy metabolism, amino acid metabolism, and membrane transport.ConclusionOur findings underscore the significance of S. epidermidis as a crucial pathogen responsible for infectious endophthalmitis. It is crucial to exercise vigilance when considering Levofloxacin as the first-line drug for empiric endophthalmitis treatment. The metabolites alteration observed during the commensal-to-pathogen conversion under microoxic condition serve as a pivotal environmental signal contributing to S. epidermidis metabolism remodeling, toward more pathogenic state.
Gender effect in human–machine communication: a neurophysiological study
Authors: Ding Yi , Guo Ran , Lyu Wei , Zhang Wengang 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis study aimed to investigate the neural mechanism by which virtual chatbots' gender might influence users' usage intention and gender differences in human–machine communication.ApproachEvent-related potentials (ERPs) and subjective questionnaire methods were used to explore the usage intention of virtual chatbots, and statistical analysis was conducted through repeated measures ANOVA.Results/findingsThe findings of ERPs revealed that female virtual chatbots, compared to male virtual chatbots, evoked a larger amplitude of P100 and P200, implying a greater allocation of attentional resources toward female virtual chatbots. Considering participants' gender, the gender factors of virtual chatbots continued to influence N100, P100, and P200. Specifically, among female participants, female virtual chatbots induced a larger P100 and P200 amplitude than male virtual chatbots, indicating that female participants exhibited more attentional resources and positive emotions toward same-gender chatbots. Conversely, among male participants, male virtual chatbots induced a larger N100 amplitude than female virtual chatbots, indicating that male participants allocated more attentional resources toward male virtual chatbots. The results of the subjective questionnaire showed that regardless of participants' gender, users have a larger usage intention toward female virtual chatbots than male virtual chatbots.ValueOur findings could provide designers with neurophysiological insights into designing better virtual chatbots that cater to users' psychological needs.
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation modulates masseter muscle activity, pain perception, and anxiety levels in university students: a double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Ferreira Luciano Maia Alves , Brites Ricardo , Fraião Gonçalo , Pereira Gonçalo , Fernandes Henrique , de Brito José Américo Almeida , Pereira Generoso Laura , Maziero Capello Maria Gabriela , Pereira Gabrielly Santos , Scoz Robson Dias , Silva Josie Resende Torres , Silva Marcelo Lourenço 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionChronic anxiety is a statemarked by sustained activation of the masseter muscle, manifesting in both mental and physical strain. This prolonged tension can significantly impact mental wellbeing and cognitive abilities, posing a risk for a range of health complications. This double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial investigated the impact of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (TAVNS) on masseter muscle activity, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and anxiety levels in university students with elevated anxiety.MethodsForty-two participants meeting inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either active TAVNS or sham TAVNS groups. Various parameters, including masseter muscle electromyographic (EMG) signals, PPT, and Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scores, were assessed before pretreatment, immediately after the intervention week, and 2 weeks follow-up.ResultsActive TAVNS significantly reduced both left and right masseter activation during resting mandibular position, persisting for 2 weeks post-intervention. Additionally, TAVNS induced a lasting decrease in both left and right masseter PPT, indicative of altered pain perception. Notably, BAI scores showed a substantial reduction, emphasizing TAVNS as a potential intervention for anxiety, with effects maintained at the 2-week follow-up.DiscussionThis study provides comprehensive insights into the multifaceted effects of TAVNS on physiological and psychological aspects associated with anxiety in university students. The promising results underscore TAVNS as a potential neuromodulatory intervention for anxiety-related conditions, warranting further research and clinical exploration.Clinical Trial Registrationhttps://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/rg/RBR-4s4kt2r.
Anti-hyperglycemic effects of Cissus quadrangularis extract via regulation of gluconeogenesis in type 2 diabetic db/db mice
Authors: Kim Jeong-Won , Jeong Ji-Soo , Kim Jin-Hwa , Chung Eun-Hye , Kim Chang-Yeop , Lee Dong-Ryung , Choi Bong-Keun , Lim Jong-Hwan , Ko Je-Won , Kim Tae-Won 
Published: July 2024

Introduction:Cissus quadrangularis is a vining plant widely used as a traditional herbal remedy for various ailments. In this study, the therapeutic effects of C. quadrangularis extract (CQR-300) on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) were investigated in a leptin receptor-mutated db/db mouse model.Methods: CQR-300 was orally administered to db/db mice (n = 6/group) at different doses (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg) for 8 weeks. Blood glucose levels and oral glucose tolerance were assessed using the AccuCheck glucometer. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was performed to evaluate insulin and hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels in the blood of db/db mice. Liver and pancreatic tissues from db/db mice were examined by hematoxylin and eosin (H&amp;E) and immunohistochemical staining. The protein levels of gluconeogenesis-, lipogenesis-, and oxidative stress-related factors were evaluated using western blotting.Results and discussion: CQR-300 treatment effectively reduced body weight, blood glucose, and insulin levels. HbA1c levels were increased by leptin receptor mutation. Additionally, in the oral glucose tolerance tests, the CQR-300 treated group had a faster blood glucose recovery rate than the db/db group. H&amp;E and Oil red-O staining of the liver showed decreased lipid accumulation in the CQR-300 treated group than the db/db group. Western blot analysis confirmed that CQR-300 effectively inhibited gluconeogenesis, lipogenesis, and oxidative stress-related factors. Our findings suggest that CQR-300 has the potential to be used as a T2DM supplement.
COE targets EphA2 to inhibit vasculogenic mimicry formation induced by hypoxia in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Jue , Dai Shu-Ying , Wu Su , Wu Meng-Ke , Yu Ke-Ke , Liu Jun-Chi , Chang Jia-Yu , Liu Yan-Qing 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundVasculogenic Mimicry (VM) can reduce the efficacy of anti-angiogenesis and promote distant metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous studies have found that Celastrus orbiculatus extract (COE) can inhibit the VM formation in HCC by reducing EphA2 expression. However the underlying mechanism related to EphA2 in VM formation is unclear.PurposeThis study aimed to confirm that EphA2 is one of the potential targets of COE, and to explore the effect of EphA2 in VM formation in hypoxia context in HCC.MethodsTCM Systems Pharmacology database and proteomics analysis were used to explore the key targets of COE in HCC treatment. CD31-PAS double staining and VE-CAD staining were used to indicate vasculogenic mimicry. The localization of EphA2 and VE-CAD was examined through fluorescent microscopy. CCK8 assay, cell invasion assay, and tube formation assay were used to indicate the formation of VM under hypoxic conditions. The regulatory relationship of EphA2 upstream and downstream molecules were evaluated through COIP and Western Blot. The nude mouse xenograft tumor models were used to observe the VM formation after knocking down or overexpressing EphA2.ResultsEphA2 is identified to the target of COE, and the driving gene of HCC. In HCC surgical specimens, EphA2 expression is closely associated with the VM formation of HCC. COE-regulated EphA2 is involved in hypoxia-induced VM formation in HCC cells in vitro. EphA2 is regulated by HIF directly or indirectly by C-MYC. Overexpression of EphA2 can promote the VM formation of HCC in nude mice, while knocking down EphA2 can inhibit the VM formation.ConclusionEphA2, as a target of COE, plays a crucial regulatory role in the formation of vasculogenic mimicry in HCC, involving upstream HIF/MYC transcriptional promotion and downstream PI3K/FAK/VE-CAD expression regulation.
Substantial parallel mediation contribution by cognitive domains in the relationship between adolescents’ physical fitness and academic achievements: the Cogni-Action Project
Authors: Cristi-Montero Carlos , Martínez-Flores Ricardo , Espinoza-Puelles Juan Pablo , Doherty Anya , Zavala-Crichton Juan Pablo , Aguilar-Farias Nicolas , Reyes-Amigo Tomas , Salvatierra-Calderon Vanessa , Ibáñez Romualdo , Sadarangani Kabir P. 
Published: July 2024

ObjectiveTo determine how cognitive domains mediate the link between fitness components, their global score (GFS), and adolescents’ academic achievement (ACA) across various school subjects.MethodsIn this study, 1,296 adolescents aged 10–14 participated. GFS was computed by three fitness components (strength, muscular, and cardiorespiratory fitness) through the ALPHA-fitness test battery. ACA was determined by five school subjects (Language, English, Mathematics, Science, and History) and two academic scores (a) “Academic Average” (five subjects) and (b) “Academic-PISA” (Language, Mathematics, and Science). A principal component analysis was performed to establish four factors (working memory [WM], cognitive flexibility [CF], inhibitory control [IC], and fluid reasoning [FR]). A parallel mediation approach was implemented with 5,000 bootstrapped samples controlled for sex, maturity, central obesity, having breakfast before cognitive tasks, schools, and school vulnerability. Total, direct, indirect effects, and mediation percentages were estimated.ResultsOverall, the finding showed a full parallel mediation effect for Language (92.5%) and English (53.9%), while a partial mediation for Mathematics (43.0%), Science (43.8%), History (45.9%), “Academic Average” (50.6%), and “Academic-PISA” (51.5%). In particular, WM, IC, and FR mediated all school subjects except mathematics, where IC was not significant. CF has not mediated any relationship between GF and academic performance.ConclusionThis study underscores the pivotal role of cognitive domains, specifically WM, IC, and FR, in mediating the link between physical fitness and academic performance in adolescents. These insights have relevant implications for educational and public health policies.
Pre- and post-pandemic risk perceptions and worries
Authors: Wolff Katharina , Larsen Svein 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThe present study is a cross-sectional investigation of worry and risk perceptions regarding various hazards and destinations, measured before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.MethodsQuestionnaire data were collected from tourists in Norway during the summer seasons of 2012 (N = 2,669), 2019 (N = 1,666), and 2022 (N = 956), and from a representative sample of Norwegians in 2020 (N = 1,003).ResultsThe results show a general decline in the level of worry and risk perceptions post-pandemic compared to those pre-pandemic, with the exception of infectious diseases, whose perceived risk slightly increased in 2022.ConclusionThe results highlight the importance of employing cross-sectional or longitudinal data to investigate changes in risk perceptions over time. The findings also indicate that pessimistic predictions of a continued decline in tourism appear to be unwarranted.
Administrative regulation-informed analysis of the developmental path of national volume-based procurement to improve drug accessibility in China
Authors: Lu Songxin , Liu Xiangdong , Huang Zhengzong , Zhou Zhiheng , Feng Zehua 
Published: July 2024

IntroductionThe procurement of medicines via China’s national volume-based procurement (NVBP) necessitates collaboration among various entities. This paper highlights the legal significance of the engagement of pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and the National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA) in improving drug accessibility.MethodsWe conducted a numerical simulation using MATLAB to develop an evolutionary game model involving these three participants in NVBP.ResultsOur findings indicate that the final evolutionary stabilization strategies are pharmaceutical companies actively participating, hospitals using bid-winning medicines, and the NHSA implementing a low-intensity intervention. The study reveals that the evolutionary outcomes for hospitals and pharmaceutical companies are significantly affected by factors such as NHSA’s subsidy level and pharmaceutical companies’ level of participation. However, NHSA’s decision-making process is less influenced by these factors.DiscussionFrom a legal perspective, the successful implementation of NVBP, ensuring fairness and legality, requires adherence to relevant policies and regulations. The NHSA should employ statutory incentives and regulatory methods in formulating and adjusting NVBP policy to enable pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and the NHSA to exercise their rights rationally within the legal framework of the game process.
Serotype distribution of invasive pneumococcal disease from countries of the WHO Africa, Americas, Eastern Mediterranean, South-East Asia, and Western Pacific regions: a systematic literature review from 2010 to 2021
Authors: Fletcher Mark A. , Daigle Derek , Siapka Mariana , Baay Marc , Hanquet Germaine , del Carmen Morales Graciela 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundMost publications on invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) serotype distribution are from about 20 countries (Australia, Canada, China, European Union members, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, and USA). Here, we reviewed the literature among underrepresented countries in the Americas (AMRO), Africa (AFRO), Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO), South-East Asia (SEARO), and Western Pacific (WPRO) WHO regions.MethodsWe performed a systematic review of the most recent IPD serotype surveillance publications (from 01/01/2010 to 31/12/2021, Medline/Embase) in those WHO regions. Selection criteria were delineated by contemporality, within-country geographical scope, and number of samples. Reported serotype distributions for each country were stratified by age group, pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) serotype category (considering undifferentiated serotypes), and PCV program period (pre-PCV, intermediate, or PCVhv [higher valency PCV formulation]). Pre-PCV period pooled data estimated PCV serotype category distribution by age group across WHO regions, while for the PCVhv period, country-level dataset tables were prepared.ResultsOf 2,793 publications screened, 107 were included (58 pediatric, 11 adult, 37 all ages, and one comprising every age group). One-third of eligible countries (51/135) published serotype distribution, ranging from 30 to 43% by WHO region. Considering number of samples per WHO region, a few countries prevailed: AMRO (Brazil), AFRO (South Africa, Malawi, and Burkina Faso), and WPRO (Taiwan). In the pre-PCV period, PCV13 formulation serotypes predominated: ranging from 74 to 85% in children and 58–86% in adults in the different WHO regions. The PCVhv period represented half of the most recent IPD surveillance by countries (26/51). Undifferentiated serotypes represented &gt;20% of IPD from most countries (34/51).ConclusionUbiquity of undifferentiated serotypes among the publications could constrain estimates of PCV program impact and of serotype coverage for newer PCVhv formulations; consequently, we recommend that countries favor techniques that identify serotypes specifically and, rather than reporting PCV formulation serotype distributions, provide serotype results individually.Systematic review registrationThe protocol has been prospectively registered at PROSPERO, identifier: CRD42021278501. https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=278501.
One-year post-acute COVID-19 syndrome and mortality in South Korea: a nationwide matched cohort study using claims data
Authors: Won Jung-Hyun , Hong Yesol , Kim Siun , Lee Howard 
Published: July 2024

BackgroundCurrent understanding of post-COVID-19 syndrome in South Korea is primarily based on survey studies or research targeting specific patient groups, such as those hospitalized. Moreover, the majority of relevant studies have been conducted in European and North American populations, which may limit their applicability to the South Korean context. To address this gap, our study explores the one-year outcomes of COVID-19, focusing on the potential post-acute syndrome and all-cause mortality in South Korea.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study used nationwide claims data in South Korea, including adults aged &gt;18 with records between January 20, 2020, and February 25, 2021. Patients were classified into COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 groups and matched 1:1 based on propensity scores. Primary outcomes were 12-month post-acute COVID-19 syndrome and all-cause mortality.ResultsThe study involved 34,802 matched patients. The COVID-19 group had significantly elevated risks of coagulopathies (OR = 2.70 [2.24, 3.28]; p &lt; 0.001), chronic lower respiratory diseases (OR = 1.96 [1.80, 2.14]; p &lt; 0.001), symptoms of the circulatory and respiratory systems (OR = 1.91 [1.80, 2.04]; p &lt; 0.001), mood disorders (OR = 1.67 [1.51, 1.86]; p &lt; 0.001), cardiac diseases (OR = 1.39 [1.21, 1.59]; p &lt; 0.001), and symptoms of cognition, perception, emotional state, and behavior (OR = 1.15 [1.04, 1.27]; p = 0.005). All-cause mortality was higher in the COVID-19 group during the 6 months (OR = 1.34 [1.06, 1.69]; p = 0.015), but gradually decreased, reaching an OR of 0.996 ([0.83, 1.19]; p = 0.964) at 1 year.ConclusionIn South Korea, the 12-month post-acute COVID-19 syndrome includes coagulopathies, respiratory issues, mood disorders, and cardiac diseases. The risk of all-cause mortality post-COVID-19 is heightened for up to 6 months, then significantly decreases and resolves within a year.
Parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward vaccinating their children against influenza: a cross-sectional study from China
Authors: He Shufeng , Zhu Caijin , Liu Xiaoyan , Wang Yanling 
Published: July 2024

AimsInfluenza infection is a health burden in children, and the influenza vaccine is an important prevention strategy for flu illness. Parents play a crucial role in children’s influenza vaccination. The study aimed to assess parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to influenza illness for their children and explore factors that may impact their decisions.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou from November 2022 to April 2023. Answers to KAP questions regarding influenza illness and vaccination were summed, with a total KAP score of 20. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models and linear regression models were conducted to explore the factors associated with influenza vaccination. The results were presented as odds ratios (ORs), β, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsOverall, 530 parents were respondents, of whom 162 (30.56%) had vaccinated their children during the past year. The mean KAP score (standard deviation) was 13.40 (3.57). Compared to parents who reported non-vaccinated for their children in the past year, the parents who reported an influenza vaccination have higher knowledge scores, attitude scores, practice scores, and total scores. Child body mass index, parental education level (under college), parental work (part-time), and more than two family members over 60 years old were negatively correlated with knowledge score. Child health condition and knowledge score were positively correlated with attitude score. Parental age was negatively associated with attitude score.ConclusionThough high awareness about influenza illness and vaccination for parents, the coverage rate of influenza vaccination in children was lower in Guangzhou. Implementing public health policies is necessary to spread knowledge about influenza illness and vaccination and to promote the practice of receiving the influenza vaccine in children. Education campaigns would help change the attitudes of parents toward vaccinating their children against the flu.