bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of refractory and unexplained chronic cough in adults treated in cough centre
Authors: Kukiełka Paweł , Moliszewska Katarzyna , Białek-Gosk Katarzyna , Grabczak Elżbieta M. , Dąbrowska Marta 
Published: June 2024

BackgroundRefractory chronic cough and unexplained chronic cough pose significant clinical challenges, impairing patients’ quality of life. However, a precise definition of refractory chronic cough remains elusive. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of refractory and unexplained chronic cough among patients referred to our cough centre and to analyse the prevalence of refractory chronic cough relative to its definition.MethodsThis prospective cohort study included all patients who were diagnosed at a cough clinic between 2018 and 2022. The response to therapy was measured based on reduction in cough severity (viaa visual analogue scale) and improvement in cough-related quality of life (viathe Leicester Cough Questionnaire). Refractory chronic cough was defined as persistent cough severity, with no or minimal improvement (change in visual analogue scale <30 mm) after two or more treatment attempts and cough severity ≥40 out of 100 mm on the visual analogue scale.ResultsOf 201 patients treated for chronic cough, only three (1.5%) were diagnosed with unexplained chronic cough. Among 166 patients monitored for therapy response, 71 (42.8%) experienced a cough severity reduction of ≥30 mm on the visual analogue scale, while 100 (60.2%) showed an improvement of ≥1.5 points on the Leicester Cough Questionnaire. Based on the basic refractory chronic cough definition, 51 of 166 patients (30.7%) were diagnosed with refractory chronic cough. If applying stricter criteria (persistent severe cough (≥40 mm on the visual analogue scale), insufficient therapy response (<30 mm reduction on the visual analogue scale) and <1.5-point improvement on the Leicester Cough Questionnaire), 45 of 166 patients (27.1%) would be diagnosed with refractory chronic cough.ConclusionsRefractory chronic cough is common in patients referred to cough clinics. The prevalence of refractory chronic cough differs slightly depending on the diagnostic criteria. Therefore, the definition of refractory chronic cough used in routine practice needs to be clarified.
Genome-wide association study of BNT162b2 vaccine-related myocarditis identifies potential predisposing functional areas in Hong Kong adolescents
Authors: She Chun Hing , Tsang Hing Wai , Yang Xingtian , Tsao Sabrina SL , Tang Clara SM , Chan Sophelia HS , Kwan Mike YW , Chua Gilbert T , Yang Wanling , Ip Patrick 
Published: June 2024

AbstractVaccine-related myocarditis associated with the BNT162b2 vaccine is a rare complication, with a higher risk observed in male adolescents. However, the contribution of genetic factors to this condition remains uncertain. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive genetic association analysis in a cohort of 43 Hong Kong Chinese adolescents who were diagnosed with myocarditis shortly after receiving the BNT162b2 mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. A comparison of whole-genome sequencing data was performed between the confirmed myocarditis cases and a control group of 481 healthy individuals. To narrow down potential genomic regions of interest, we employed a novel clustering approach called ClusterAnalyzer, which prioritised 2,182 genomic regions overlapping with 1,499 genes for further investigation. Our pathway analysis revealed significant enrichment of these genes in functions related to cardiac conduction, ion channel activity, plasma membrane adhesion, and axonogenesis. These findings suggest a potential genetic predisposition in these specific functional areas that may contribute to the observed side effect of the vaccine. Nevertheless, further validation through larger-scale studies is imperative to confirm these findings. Given the increasing prominence of mRNA vaccines as a promising strategy for disease prevention and treatment, understanding the genetic factors associated with vaccine-related myocarditis assumes paramount importance. Our study provides valuable insights that significantly advance our understanding in this regard and serve as a valuable foundation for future research endeavours in this field.
Combined metabolome and transcriptome reveal HmF6’H1 regulating simple coumarin accumulation against powdery mildew infection in Heracleum moellendorffii Hance
Authors: Liu Hanbing , Wang Yiran , Chang QinZheng , Li Qiubi , Fang Jiahui , Cao Ning , Tong Xuejiao , Jiang Xinmei , Yu Xihong , Cheng Yao 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Powdery mildew, caused by Eeysiphe heraclei, seriously threatens Heracleum moellendorffii Hance. Plant secondary metabolites are essential to many activities and are necessary for defense against biotic stress. In order to clarify the functions of these metabolites in response to the pathogen, our work concentrated on the variations in the accumulation of secondary metabolites in H. moellendorffii during E. heraclei infection.

Results
Following E. heraclei infection, a significant upregulation of coumarin metabolites—particularly simple coumarins and associated genes was detected by RNA-seq and UPLC-MS/MS association analysis. Identifying HmF6’H1, a Feruloyl CoA 6’-hydroxylase pivotal in the biosynthesis of the coumarin basic skeleton through ortho-hydroxylation, was a significant outcome. The cytoplasmic HmF6’H1 protein was shown to be able to catalyze the ortho-hydroxylation of p-coumaroyl-CoA and caffeoyl-CoA, resulting in the formation of umbelliferone and esculetin, respectively. Over-expression of the HmF6’H1 gene resulted in increased levels of simple coumarins, inhibiting the biosynthesis of furanocoumarins and pyranocoumarins by suppressing PT gene expression, enhancing H. moellendorffii resistance to powdery mildew.

Conclusions
These results established HmF6’H1 as a resistance gene aiding H. moellendorffii in combatting E. heraclei infection, offering additional evidence of feruloyl-CoA 6’-hydroxylase role in catalyzing various types of simple coumarins. Therefore, this work contributes to our understanding of the function of simple coumarins in plants’ defense against powdery mildew infection.
Morbidity profile and pharmaceutical management of adult outpatients between primary and tertiary care levels in Sri Lanka: a dual-centre, comparative study
Authors: Alwis Inosha , Rajapaksha Buwanaka , Jayasanka Chanuka , Dharmaratne Samath D. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Outpatient care is central to both primary and tertiary levels in a health system. However, evidence is limited on outpatient differences between these levels, especially in South Asia. This study aimed to describe and compare the morbidity profile (presenting morbidities, comorbidities, multimorbidity) and pharmaceutical management (patterns, indicators) of adult outpatients between a primary and tertiary care outpatient department (OPD) in Sri Lanka.

Methods
A comparative study was conducted by recruiting 737 adult outpatients visiting a primary care and a tertiary care facility in the Kandy district. A self-administered questionnaire and a data sheet were used to collect outpatient and prescription data. Following standard categorisations, Chi-square tests and Mann‒Whitney U tests were employed for comparisons.

Results
Outpatient cohorts were predominated by females and middle-aged individuals. The median duration of presenting symptoms was higher in tertiary care OPD (10 days, interquartile range: 57) than in primary care (3 days, interquartile range: 12). The most common systemic complaint in primary care OPD was respiratory symptoms (32.4%), whereas it was dermatological symptoms (30.2%) in tertiary care. The self-reported prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) was 37.9% (95% CI: 33.2–42.8) in tertiary care OPD and 33.2% (95% CI: 28.5–38.3) in primary care; individual disease differences were significant only for diabetes (19.7% vs. 12.8%). The multimorbidity in tertiary care OPD was 19.0% (95% CI: 15.3–23.1), while it was 15.9% (95% CI: 12.4–20.0) in primary care. Medicines per encounter at primary care OPD (3.86, 95% CI: 3.73–3.99) was higher than that at tertiary care (3.47, 95% CI: 3.31–3.63). Medicines per encounter were highest for constitutional and respiratory symptoms in both settings. Overall prescribing of corticosteroids (62.7%), vitamin supplements (45.8%), anti-allergic (55.3%) and anti-asthmatic (31.3%) drugs was higher in the primary care OPD, and the two former drugs did not match the morbidity profile. The proportion of antibiotics prescribed did not differ significantly between OPDs. Subgroup analyses of drug categories by morbidity largely followed these overall differences.

Conclusions
The morbidities between primary and tertiary care OPDs differed in duration and type but not in terms of multimorbidity or most comorbidities. Pharmaceutical management also varied in terms of medicines per encounter and prescribed categories. This evidence supports planning in healthcare and provides directions for future research in primary care.
An exploration of Northern Ireland general practice pharmacists’ views on their role in general practice: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Hassan Abrar H. F. , Barry Heather E. , Hughes Carmel M. 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
There is limited research examining the views of general practice pharmacists (GPPs) on their role and their impact in general practice. The aim of this study was to explore GPPs’ views regarding this role and its potential impact within general practice in Northern Ireland (NI).

Methods
A paper-based self-administered questionnaire was mailed to 319 general practices in NI in 2022, directed to the GPP who spent most time at the practice. A variety of closed and open questions were included in six sections. Responses to closed questions were analysed descriptively whilst open question responses were analysed using content analysis. To ascertain associations between variables (e.g. GPP prescribing status, working arrangements and aspects of collaboration with GPPs), Fisher’s exact test was employed with an a priori significance level of p < 0.05.

Results
155 responses were received equating to a response rate of 48.5%. Most participants (72.3%) were female, independent prescribers (71%), and 64.5% were currently using their independent prescriber qualification. Services that were provided by most GPPs were medication reconciliation (99.4%) and medication reviews (97.4%). The most common method of communication between GPPs and general practitioners (GPs) was face-to-face (89.0%). Telephone was the most common method of communication between GPPs, community pharmacists (97.4%) and patients (98.7%). Most GPPs (> 80%) showed positive attitudes towards collaboration with GPs and those who worked in multiple practices were more likely to agree with the Attitudes Towards Collaboration Instrument for pharmacists (ATCI-P) statements compared to those who worked in a single practice (p < 0.05). Less than 40% (36.8%) of GPPs agreed that patients were aware of the role they provided. The majority of GPPs (80.6%) expressed positive views on their impact on primary care. Analysis of the free-text comments revealed the need for more GPP patient-facing activities, GPP-specific training, and promotion of the GPP role.

Conclusion
The findings indicated that GPPs had largely positive views about their role and their impact on primary care. The results may be helpful for practices and service commissioners. Further research is necessary to explore the perspectives of patients regarding the role of the GPP and to enhance patients’ awareness of the GPP.
Nocturia and frailty in older adults: a scoping review
Authors: Komleva Yulia , Gollasch Maik , König Maximilian 
Published: June 2024

Abstract

Background
More than one in two older people wake up several times a night to urinate. Far from being a minor inconvenience, nocturia is associated with poor health outcomes. Given the importance of sleep as a foundation for resilience and healthy ageing, nocturia may promote the development of frailty, which is inextricably linked to physical decline, disability, and mortality.
The aim of this scoping review was to collate published evidence on the relationship between nocturia and frailty, using the methodological framework of Arksey and O'Malley, together with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology as guidance (OSF registration: osf.io/d5ct7).

Methods
Relevant publications were retrieved via PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. The Rayyan tool was used to facilitate the screening process. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers. 250 publications were initially identified, of which 87 met the eligibility criteria.

Results
Most of the evidence came from cross-sectional studies, most of which had been published within the last 5 years. The researchers were diverse, with 27% having a geriatric background. Only few publications established a clear association between nocturia and frailty. Other topics included: the association between nocturia and poor sleep quality and duration; the association between sleep and frailty; the association between frailty, multimorbidity, and age-related changes in the lower urinary tract.

Conclusion
The findings emphasize the increasing interest and interdisciplinary nature of research into the relationship between frailty, nocturia, lower urinary tract symptoms, and sleep disturbances. Further research is required to enhance understanding, establish causality, and identify potential therapeutic approaches.
Longitudinal dynamic single-cell mass cytometry analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells in COVID-19 patients within 6 months after viral RNA clearance
Authors: Zhou Diwenxin , Zhao Shuai , He Keting , Liu Qiuhong , Zhang Fen , Pu Zhangya , Xiao Lanlan , Zhang Lingjian , Chen Shangci , Qian Xiaohan , Wu Xiaoxin , Shen Yangfan , Yu Ling , Zhang Huafen , Jin Jiandi , Xu Min , Wang Xiaoyan , Zhu Danhua , Xie Zhongyang , Xu Xiaowei 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the longitudinal dynamic changes in immune cells in COVID-19 patients over an extended period after recovery, as well as the interplay between immune cells and antibodies. Leveraging single-cell mass spectrometry, we selected six COVID-19 patients and four healthy controls, dissecting the evolving landscape within six months post-viral RNA clearance, alongside the levels of anti-spike protein antibodies. The T cell immunophenotype ascertained via single-cell mass spectrometry underwent validation through flow cytometry in 37 samples. Our findings illuminate that CD8 + T cells, gamma-delta (gd) T cells, and NK cells witnessed an increase, in contrast to the reduction observed in monocytes, B cells, and double-negative T (DNT) cells over time. The proportion of monocytes remained significantly elevated in COVID-19 patients compared to controls even after six-month. Subpopulation-wise, an upsurge manifested within various T effector memory subsets, CD45RA + T effector memory, gdT, and NK cells, whereas declines marked the populations of DNT, naive and memory B cells, and classical as well as non-classical monocytes. Noteworthy associations surfaced between DNT, gdT, CD4 + T, NK cells, and the anti-S antibody titer. This study reveals the changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of COVID-19 patients within 6 months after viral RNA clearance and sheds light on the interactions between immune cells and antibodies. The findings from this research contribute to a better understanding of immune transformations during the recovery from COVID-19 and offer guidance for protective measures against reinfection in the context of viral variants.
Smoking patterns and the intention to quit in German cancer patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bokemeyer Frederike , Lebherz Lisa , Bokemeyer Carsten , Gali Kathleen , Schulz Holger , Bleich Christiane 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Continued smoking after a cancer diagnosis can be associated with lower treatment tolerance, poorer outcomes, and reduced quality of life compared to non-smoking cancer patients or to those who have quit. Yet about 60% of patients continue to smoke after being diagnosed and find it difficult to quit. To address this problem, it is necessary to identify current and past smoking patterns (e.g., frequency of use, types of tobacco products) and determine whether there is motivation to quit. Similarly, factors associated with continued smoking should be identified. These data will provide the basis for the development of smoking cessation programs tailored to the needs of cancer patients.

Methods
A questionnaire was distributed to cancer patients older than 18 years in a German Comprehensive Cancer Center. Participating cancer patients were divided into three main groups: 1) patients who stopped smoking before being diagnosed with cancer (Ex-before); 2) patients who stopped smoking after a cancer diagnosis (Ex-after); and 3) patients who currently smoke cigarettes (CS). Sociodemographic, medical, and psychosocial data were collected, as well as smoking patterns and the motivation to quit smoking.

Results
About half of patients (51%) who smoked before diagnosis continue to smoke after a cancer diagnosis. Being diagnosed with a tobacco-related cancer type was associated with a decreased probability of continued smoking. Patients with tobacco-related tumors and receiving positive support in burdensome situations were more likely to have a higher cigarette dependence. Of all CS, 59.1% had intention to quit, and 22.7% reported having taken action to quit.
The support by a smoking cessation program was considered important. CS were willing to spend up to €100 for support and were open to multiple sessions per week, group sessions, one-on-one sessions and/or online support.

Conclusion
These findings underscore the importance of educating cancer patients about the consequences of smoking and to provide them with support to quit. Identified risk factors may further help to recognize cancer patients with high risk of continued smoking after diagnosis.

Trial Registration
The study was registered at OSF (https://osf.io/3c9km) and published as a study protocol at “https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/13/4/e069570”.
Diet, lifestyle factors, comorbidities, and hepatocellular carcinoma risk in a middle eastern country: a case-control study
Authors: Almohaid Shaimaa , Akhtar Saeed 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) can be classified as one of the most common malignancies worldwide. There is scarcity of the published data on the risk factors for HCC in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries specifically Kuwait. Therefore, this case-control study sought to examine the risk factors associated with HCC in Kuwait.

Methods
Fifty-three histopathologically confirmed HCC cases were recruited from the Kuwait Cancer Control Center Registry. One hundred ninety-six controls (1:4 ratio) were selected from medical and/ or surgical outpatient’s clinics at all six public hospitals of Kuwait. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data both from cases and controls through face-to-face interviews. A multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to the case-control data. Adjusted odds ratios (ORadj) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were computed using the parameters’ estimates of the final model and used for interpretation of the model.

Results
The HCC cases compared with the controls were 41.6 times more likely to have had the history of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (ORadj = 41.6; 95% CI: 8.9–193.5; p < 0.001). The cases compared with the controls were more likely to have reported the history of heavy alcohol drinking (ORadj = 14.2; 95% CI: 1.2–173.4; p = 0.038). Furthermore, compared with the controls, the HCC cases tended to frequently consume milk and/or milk substitutes (≥ 3 glass/ week) (ORadj = 7.2; 95% CI: 1.2–43.4). Conversely however, there was a significant protective effect if the participants reportedly have had regularly used olive oil in their routine diet as a source of fat (ORadj = 0.17; 95% CI: 0.04–0.80) or regularly used non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (ORadj = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.05–0.71).

Conclusions
This study showed that heavy alcohol consumption, NAFLD history, and excessive consumption of milk/ milk substitutes were associated with a significantly increased HCC risk. Conversely however, regular use of olive oil in the diet as a source of fat or regular use of NSAIDs had a significantly protective effect against HCC risk. Adapting healthy dietary habits and preventing/ treating NAFLD may minimize the HCC risk. Future research with a larger sample size may contemplate validating the results of this study and unraveling additional risk factors contributing to HCC risk. The resultant data may help design and implement evidence-based educational programs for the prevention of HCC in this and other similar settings.
PRDX1 exerts a photoprotection effect by inhibiting oxidative stress and regulating MAPK signaling on retinal pigment epithelium
Authors: Wen Xiao-Ying , Yang Na , Gao Yang , Ma Wei-na , Fu Yan , Geng Ren-fei , Zhang Yue-ling 
Published: June 2024

Abstract
Background
The purpose of this study was to investigate the photoprotection effect of peroxiredoxin 1 (PRDX1) protein in ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation-induced damage of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and its possible molecular mechanism.

Methods
ARPE-19 cell viability and apoptosis were assessed by MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the PRDX1 expression. The corresponding kits were employed to measure the levels or activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD). Western blotting was applied to examine PRDX1 expression and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway-related proteins.

Results
After exposure to 20 mJ/cm2 intensity of UVB irradiation for 24 h, ARPE-19 cells viability was decreased, the leakage degree of LDH and 8-OHdG were increased, and cell apoptosis was elevated. The expression of PRDX1 was significantly down-regulated in UVB-induced ARPE-19 cells. The low expression of PRDX1 was involved in high irradiation intensity. Overexpression of PRDX1 increased cell activity, decreased cell apoptosis, and LDH as well as 8-OHdG leakage in UVB-induced ARPE-19 cells. In addition to alleviating UVB-induced cell damage, PRDX1 overexpression also inhibited UVB-induced oxidative stress (down-regulation of ROS and MDA levels, up-regulation of GSH-Px and SOD activities) and the activation of MAPK signaling pathway in ARPE-19 cells.

Conclusion
PRDX1 exerts a photoprotection effect on RPE by attenuating UVB-induced cell damage and inhibiting oxidative stress, which can be attributed to the inhibition of MAPK signaling pathway activation.