bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of electro-acupuncture in alleviating intestinal injury in septic mice via polyamine-related M2-macrophage polarization
Authors: Xu Xinyi , Huang Xianglong , Xiao Lu , Wang Jiabao , Yang Xiaokun , Wu Yifan 
Published: April 2024

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to investigate the impact of electro-acupuncture (EA) on sepsis-related intestinal injury and its relationship with macrophage polarization.MethodsA sepsis model was established using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) to assess the effectiveness of EA. The extent of pathological injury was evaluated using Chiu’s score, the expression of ZO-1 and Ocludin, and the impact on macrophage polarization was examined through flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining. The expression of spermidine, one type of polyamine, and ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) was measured using ELISA and PCR. Once the efficacy was determined, a polyamine depletion model was created, and the role of polyamines was reassessed by evaluating efficacy and observing macrophage polarization.ResultsEA treatment reduced the Chiu’s score and increased the expression of ZO-1 and Ocludin in the intestinal tissue of septic mice. It inhibited the secretion of IL-1β and TNF-α, promoted the polarization of M2-type macrophages, increased the secretion of IL-10, and upregulated the expression of Arg-1, spermidine, and ODC. However, after depleting polyamines, the beneficial effects of EA on alleviating intestinal tissue damage and modulating macrophage polarization disappeared.ConclusionThe mechanism underlying the alleviation of intestinal injury associated with CLP-induced sepsis by EA involves with the promotion of M2-type macrophage polarization mediated by spermidine expression.
Households neighboring wildlife protected areas may be at a higher risk of rabies than those located further away: a community-based cross-sectional cohort study at Pian Upe game reserve, Bukedea district, Eastern Uganda
Authors: Atuheire Collins G. K. , Okwee-Acai James , Taremwa Martha , Ssajjakambwe Paul , Munyeme Musso , Kankya Clovice , Terence Odoch , Ssali Sarah N. , Mwiine Frank N. , Buhler Kayla J. , Tryland Morten 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionThis study examines rabies incidence and associated risk factors at the interface between wildlife and human communities near Pian-Upe game reserve in Eastern Uganda. We hypothesized that human settlements in closer proximity to the reserve would exhibit higher rabies risk compared to those located further away.MethodsUsing a standard questionnaire, households within &lt;4, 4-14, and &gt;14 km from the Pian Upe game reserve in Bukedea District were interviewed. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, recent rabid animal bites, and suspected human and livestock rabies cases for the past year (2023) were collected after seeking informed consent. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze socio-demographic information and incidence data, while separate binomial generalized linear models with log-link function were used to identify predictors of rabies incidence and mortality.ResultsBetween January and March 2023, 302 participants were interviewed. Respondents had an average age of 44 years with 34% (n=103) being female. All households owned at least one dog, though only 47% (n=142) had vaccinated their dogs against rabies in the past year. Additionally, 39% (n=118) of respondents used dogs for hunting. Rabies annual incidence increased with decreasing distance to the game reserve (7.5 to 15.7% for humans, for the dogs, and 5.0 to 9.8% for livestock, including cows, goats and sheep). Significant factors associated with rabies in humans included primary education level (aRR=3.8, 95%CI 1.0-23.7) and grazing livestock in the reserve (aRR=5.30, 95%CI 1.0-40.3). Mortality was associated with fetching firewood from the game reserve (aRR=4.7, 95%CI 1.3-17.5).ConclusionsThis study reveals that there is an increased risk of rabies for domesticated animals and people located within proximity to the game reserve. Further efforts to prevent the spread of rabies could include increasing education and awareness for communities along with targeted dog vaccination in settlements surrounding wildlife protected areas.
COVID-19 with high-sensitivity CRP associated with worse dynamic clinical parameters and outcomes
Authors: Iam-Arunthai Kunapa , Chamnanchanunt Supat , Thungthong Pravinwan , Chinapha Anongnart , Nakhahes Chajchawan , Suwanban Tawatchai , Umemura Tsukuru 
Published: April 2024

ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the relationship between high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) in hospitalized COVID-19 patients and their clinical outcomes, including trajectory of hsCRP changes during hospitalization.Method and resultsPatients with positive COVID-19 tests between 2021 and 2023 were admitted to two hospitals. Among 184 adult patients, approximately half (47.3%) had elevated hsCRP levels upon admission, which defined as exceeding the laboratory-specific upper limit of test (&gt; 5.0 mg/L). Clinical outcomes included critical illness, acute kidney injury, thrombotic events, intensive care unit (ICU) requirement, and death during hospitalization. Elevated hsCRP levels had a higher risk of ICU requirement than those with normal, 39.1% versus 16.5%; adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.3 [95% CI, 1.05–5.01]; p = 0.036. Patients with extremely high (≥2 times) hsCRP levels had aOR, 2.65 [95% CI, 1.09–6.45]; p &lt; 0.001. On the fifth day hospitalization, patients with high hsCRP levels associated with acute kidney injury (aOR, 4.13 [95% CI, 1.30–13.08]; p = 0.016), ICU requirement (aOR, 2.67 [95%CI, 1.02–6.99]; p = 0.044), or death (aOR, 4.24 [95% CI, 1.38-12.99]; p = 0.011). The likelihood of worse clinical outcomes increased as hsCRP levels rose; patients with elevated hsCRP had lower overall survival rate than those with normal (p = 0.02). The subset of high hsCRP patients with high viral load also had a shorter half-life compared to those with normal hsCRP level (p = 0.003).ConclusionElevated hsCRP levels were found to be a significant predictor of ICU requirement, acute kidney injury, or death within 5 days after hospitalization in COVID-19 patients. This emphasized the importance of providing more intensive care management to patients with elevated hsCRP.
Analyzing molecular signatures in preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction: Identifying key genes, pathways, and therapeutic targets for preterm birth
Authors: Azmi Muhammad Bilal , Nasir Mushyeda Fatima , Asif Uzma , Kazi Mohsin , Uddin Mohammad N. , Qureshi Shamim Akhtar 
Published: April 2024

Background:Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and preeclampsia (PE) are intricately linked with specific maternal health conditions, exhibit shared placental abnormalities, and play pivotal roles in precipitating preterm birth (PTB) incidences. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the association between PE and IUGR has not been determined. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the data of females with PE and those with PE + IUGR to identify the key gene(s), their molecular pathways, and potential therapeutic interactions.Methods:In this study, a comprehensive relationship analysis of both PE and PE + IUGR was conducted using RNA sequence datasets. Using two datasets (GSE148241 and GSE114691), differential gene expression analysis via DESeq2 through R-programming was performed. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed using ClusterProfiler, protein‒protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed, and cluster analyses were conducted using String and MCODE in Cytoscape. Functional enrichment analyses of the resulting subnetworks were performed using ClueGO software. The hub genes were identified under both conditions using the CytoHubba method. Finally, the most common hub protein was docked against a library of bioactive flavonoids and PTB drugs using the PyRx AutoDock tool, followed by molecular dynamic (MD) simulation analysis. Pharmacokinetic analysis was performed to determine the ADMET properties of the compounds using pkCSM.Results:We identified eight hub genes highly expressed in the case of PE, namely, PTGS2, ENG, KIT, MME, CGA, GAPDH, GPX3, and P4HA1, and the network of the PE + IUGR gene set demonstrated that nine hub genes were overexpressed, namely, PTGS2, FGF7, FGF10, IL10, SPP1, MPO, THBS1, CYBB, and PF4. PTGS2 was the most common hub gene found under both conditions (PE and PEIUGR). Moreover, the greater (−9.1 kcal/mol) molecular binding of flavoxate to PTGS2 was found to have satisfactory pharmacokinetic properties compared with those of other compounds. The flavoxate-bound PTGS2 protein complex remained stable throughout the simulation; with a ligand fit to protein, i.e., a RMSD ranging from ∼2.0 to 4.0 Å and a RMSF ranging from ∼0.5 to 2.9 Å, was observed throughout the 100 ns analysis.Conclusion:The findings of this study may be useful for treating PE and IUGR in the management of PTB.
Translational pathway of a novel PFF2 respirator with chitosan nanotechnology: from the concept to the practical applications
Authors: Fleury Rosa Mário Fabrício , Santos Leonor Maria Pacheco , Grabois Gadelha Carlos Augusto , Martins de Toledo Aline , Carregaro Rodrigo Luiz , Almeida da Silva Ana Karoline , Mota da Costa Lindemberg Barreto , Ferreira da Rocha Adson , de Siqueira Rodrigues Fleury Rosa Suélia 
Published: April 2024

Introduction:Translational Health Research (THR) is a tool aimed at assisting in the transformation of basic and/or applied scientific research into a health technology ready for commercialization. The aim of this study is to present the translational pathway in wich our research group developed a Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) called VESTA® Facial Respirator with chitosan nanotechnology for protection against viruses, bacteria, and fungi. The aim of this study is to present the process of THR applied to a health technology research.Methods:The theoretical-methodological process of THR was applied to the Research and Development (R&amp;D) of the respirator. This method is characterized by subsequent phases, as follow: T (0)—Concept, T (1) Pre-Clinical, T (2) Clinical, T (3) Industrial Scale Production, and T (4) Characterized by subsequent phases, as follow: Technological Evaluation.Results:Applying the THR process in the development and production of the Particulate Filtering Facepiece class 2 (PFF2) respirator with chitosan nanotechnology, University of Brasilia was able to transform the research idea into a respirator approved by the National Regulatory Agency for industrial-scale production within 24 months. The THR process is not a linear action; this flexibility allows essential activities for transforming research into a marketable product.Discussion:The integration among various stakeholders right from the genesis of research is a driving force for the effective utilization of results. The maturity of the country’s industrial sector is crucial for converting university research into a marketable product, and governments need to prioritize these products in healthcare system incorporations. The academic culture of scientific research needs to intensify the technological transfer phase of its inventions. Conclusion: In less than 24 months, the University of Brasilia translated research on a new PPE into the market by applying the THR method.
Synthetic minority over-sampling technique-enhanced machine learning models for predicting recurrence of postoperative chronic subdural hematoma
Authors: Ni Zhihui , Zhu Yehao , Qian Yiwei , Li Xinbo , Xing Zhenqiu , Zhou Yinan , Chen Yu , Huang Lijie , Yang Jianjing , Zhuge Qichuan 
Published: April 2024

ObjectiveChronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is a neurological condition with high recurrence rates, primarily observed in the elderly population. Although several risk factors have been identified, predicting CSDH recurrence remains a challenge. Given the potential of machine learning (ML) to extract meaningful insights from complex data sets, our study aims to develop and validate ML models capable of accurately predicting postoperative CSDH recurrence.MethodsData from 447 CSDH patients treated with consecutive burr-hole irrigations at Wenzhou Medical University’s First Affiliated Hospital (December 2014-April 2019) were studied. 312 patients formed the development cohort, while 135 comprised the test cohort. The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) method was employed to select crucial features associated with recurrence. Eight machine learning algorithms were used to construct prediction models for hematoma recurrence, using demographic, laboratory, and radiological features. The Border-line Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE) was applied to address data imbalance, and Shapley Additive Explanation (SHAP) analysis was utilized to improve model visualization and interpretability. Model performance was assessed using metrics such as AUROC, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA).ResultsOur optimized ML models exhibited prediction accuracies ranging from 61.0% to 86.2% for hematoma recurrence in the validation set. Notably, the Random Forest (RF) model surpassed other algorithms, achieving an accuracy of 86.2%. SHAP analysis confirmed these results, highlighting key clinical predictors for CSDH recurrence risk, including age, alanine aminotransferase level, fibrinogen level, thrombin time, and maximum hematoma diameter. The RF model yielded an accuracy of 92.6% with an AUC value of 0.834 in the test dataset.ConclusionOur findings underscore the efficacy of machine learning algorithms, notably the integration of the RF model with SMOTE, in forecasting the recurrence of postoperative chronic subdural hematoma. Leveraging the RF model, we devised an online calculator that may serve as a pivotal instrument in tailoring therapeutic strategies and implementing timely preventive interventions for high-risk patients.
Serial ASPECTS to predict stroke-associated pneumonia after thrombolysis in patients with acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Krongsut Sarawut , Soontornpun Atiwat , Anusasnee Niyada 
Published: April 2024

BackgroundStroke-associated pneumonia (SAP) is a serious complication in stroke patients, significantly increasing mortality. The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) is a recognized predictor of acute ischemic stroke outcomes. We aimed to investigate the performance of serial ASPECTS assessments (baseline ASPECTS, 24-h ASPECTS, and change in ASPECTS) for predicting SAP in patients with thrombolyzed acute anterior circulation ischemic stroke (AACIS).MaterialsA retrospective observational cohort study of adult patients with thrombolyzed AACIS was conducted. Baseline and 24-h ASPECTS using non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT), complications of stroke, including SAP and swallowing dysfunction using the Modified Water Swallowing test, were collected. Baseline and 24-h ASPECTS were evaluated by a certified neurologist and neuroradiologist. The predictive performance was determined based on the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to assess the impact of serial ASPECTS assessment on predicting SAP.ResultsOf the 345 patients with thrombolyzed AACIS in our study, 18.4% (64/345) experienced SAP. The patients’ median age was 62 years [interquartile range (IQR): 52–73], with 53.4% being male. The median NIHSS score was 11 points (IQR: 8–17). The ROC analysis revealed areas under the curve for predicting SAP with baseline ASPECTS, 24-h ASPECTS, and change in ASPECTS were 0.75 (95% CI, 0.69–0.82), 0.84 (95% CI, 0.79–0.89), and 0.82 (95% CI, 0.76–0.87), respectively. Of the three measures, 24-h ASPECTS was a better predictor of SAP (odds ratio: 5.33, 95%CI: 2.08–13.67, p &lt; 0.001) and had a higher sensitivity (0.84 [95%CI, 0.74–0.92]) and specificity (0.79 [95%CI, 0.74–0.84]) than both baseline ASPECTS and change in ASPECTS.Conclusion24-h NCCT-ASPECTS outperformed both baseline ASPECTS and change in ASPECTS for predicting SAP. Notably, 24-h ASPECTS, with a cut-off value of ≤6, exhibited good predictive performance and emerged as the better predictor for SAP.
Examining the utility of near infrared light as pre-exposure therapy to mitigate temporary noise-induced hearing loss in humans
Authors: Williams Erin , Minesinger Kayla , Gallagher Hilary , Stefanson J. R. , Bridges Nathaniel , Jackson Natalie , Stark Valerie , Coto Jennifer , Rajguru Suhrud , Yankaskas Kurt , Rogers Rick , Hoffer Michael E. 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionThis study sought to determine the effect of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) compliant noise on auditory health and assess whether pre-noise near infrared (NIR) light therapy can mitigate the effects of noise exposure.MethodsOver four visits, participants (n = 30, NCT#: 03834714) with normal hearing completed baseline hearing health assessments followed by exposure to open ear, continuous pink noise at 94 dBA for 15 min. Immediately thereafter, post-noise hearing tests at 3000, 4000, and 6000 Hz and distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) were conducted along with the Modified Rhyme Test (MRT), Masking Level Difference Test (MLD), and Fixed Level Frequency Tests (FLFT) [collectively referred to as the Central and Peripheral Auditory Test Battery (CPATB)] to acquire baseline noise sensitivity profiles. Participants were then randomized to either Active or Sham NIR light therapy for 30 min binaurally to conclude Visit 1. Visit 2 (≥24 and ≤ 48 h from Visit 1) began with an additional 30-min session of Active NIR light therapy or Sham followed by repeat CPATB testing and noise exposure. Post-noise testing was again conducted immediately after noise exposure to assess the effect of NIR light therapy. The remaining visits were conducted following ≥2 weeks of noise rest in a cross-over design (i.e., those who had received Active NIR light therapy in Visits 1 and 2 received Sham therapy in Visits 3 and 4).ResultsRecovery hearing tests and DPOAEs were completed at the end of each visit. Participants experienced temporary threshold shifts (TTS) immediately following noise exposure, with a mean shift of 6.79 dB HL (±6.25), 10.61 dB HL (±6.89), and 7.30 dB HL (±7.25) at 3000, 4000, and 6000 Hz, respectively, though all thresholds returned to baseline at 3000, 4000, and 6000 Hz within 75 min of noise exposure. Paradoxically, Active NIR light therapy threshold shifts were statistically higher than Sham therapy at 3000 Hz (p = 0.04), but no other differences were observed at the other frequencies tested. An age sub-analysis demonstrated that TTS among younger adults were generally larger in the Sham therapy group versus Active therapy, though this was not statistically different. There were no differences in CPATB test results across Active or Sham groups. Finally, we observed no changes in auditory function or central processing following noise exposure, suggestive of healthy and resilient inner ears.ConclusionIn this study, locally administered NIR prior to noise exposure did not induce a significant protective effect in mitigating noise-induced TTS. Further exploration is needed to implement effective dosage and administration for this promising otoprotective therapy.
Magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound thalamotomy for essential tremor patients with low skull density ratio: a case-matched analysis
Authors: Ng Patrick R. , Blitz Sarah E. , Chua Melissa M. J. , Cosgrove G. Rees 
Published: April 2024

IntroductionSkull density ratio (SDR) is the ratio between the mean Hounsfield units of marrow and cortical bone, impacting energy transmission through the skull. Low SDR has been used as an exclusion criterion in major trials of magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy for medication-refractory essential tremor (ET). However, some studies have suggested that patients with low SDR can safely undergo MRgFUS with favorable outcomes. In this case-matched study, we aim to compare the characteristics, sonication parameters, lesion sizes, and clinical outcomes of patients with low SDR vs. patients with high SDR who underwent unilateral MRgFUS thalamotomy for medication-refractory ET.MethodsBetween March 2016 and April 2023, all patients (n = 270) who underwent unilateral MRgFUS thalamotomy for medication-refractory ET at a single institution were classified as low SDR (&lt;0.40) and high SDR (≥0.40). All clinical and radiological data was prospectively collected and retrospectively analyzed using non-case-matched and 1:1 case-matched methodology.ResultsThirty-one patients had low SDR, and 239 patients had high SDR. Fifty-six patients (28 in each cohort) were included in 1:1 case-matched analysis. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups in both non-case-matched and 1:1 case-matched analyses. In both analyses, compared to patients with high SDR, patients with low SDR required a significantly higher maximum sonication power, energy, and duration, and reached a lower maximum temperature with smaller lesion volumes. In the non-case-matched and case-matched analyses, low SDR patients did not have significantly less tremor control at any postoperative timepoints. However, there was a higher chance of procedure failure in the low SDR group with three patients not obtaining an appropriately sized lesion. In both analyses, imbalance was observed more often in high SDR patients on postoperative day 1 and month 3.DiscussionET patients with SDR &lt;0.40 can be safely and effectively treated with MRgFUS, though there may be higher rates of treatment failure and intraoperative discomfort.