bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Puerarin Alleviates Experimental Autoimmune Thyroiditis by Regulating Macrophages
Authors: Tao Qing , Chen Yu , Liang Qiao , Shi Jianfeng , Wang Zhiguo , Min Haiyan , Gao Qian , Yao Xiaoming , Wang Lei 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (HT) is the most common organ-specific autoimmune disease, predominantly affecting women. Although the pathogenesis of HT is incompletely understood, some studies have found that macrophage polarization plays a role. Puerarin is a soy isoflavone compound that has anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects and regulates macrophage immune activity. This study aimed to verify the therapeutic effect of puerarin on HT and explored its regulatory effect on macrophage polarization imbalance in HT. Through bioinformatics analysis and molecular biology methods, it was found that macrophages increased significantly in HT patients and model mice. Immunological staining showed that puerarin intervention could reduce tissue inflammatory cell infiltration. Molecular biological examination displayed that puerarin could inhibit local and systemic inflammation levels, and the expression of marker thyroglobulin and thyroid peroxidase Abs. In vivo experimental results indicated that puerarin regulated macrophage polarity and reduced inflammatory damage, possibly by inhibiting the pyroptosis signaling pathway. In vivo macrophage clearance experiments demonstrated that puerarin relied on macrophages to exert its mechanism of action in treating HT. The results of this study indicate that macrophages are important mediators in the development of HT, and puerarin can regulate macrophage polarity and inflammatory status to provide thyroid tissue protection, which provides a new idea for the treatment of HT.
Iron supplementation for non-anaemic pregnant women and the incidence of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy
Authors: Fitriana Farida , Pallotti Phoebe 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
To investigate effect of iron supplementation on the risk of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy in non-anaemic pregnant women.

Methods:
A literature search was conducted using three categories of terms with its synonyms or related words: “iron”, “supplement”, “hypertensive disorders in pregnancy” through MEDLINE (OVID), CINAHL, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, ICTRP, and ClinicalTrials.gov, and manual search of references was used in seven potential resources. The inclusion criteria were randomized control trials (RCTs), published in English, full-text available, having healthy pregnant women without anaemia for study participants, and having hypertensive disorders in pregnancy at the end of pregnancy as the outcome. The risk of bias assessment tool was used for quality appraisal. Meta-analysis was conducted by calculating the fixed and random effects of the odds ratio (OR) for iron supplementation among non-anaemic pregnant women compared with the incidence of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy. The range of the study's estimation accuracy was reflected by a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results:
Four RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled results showed that iron supplementation possibly had no effect on the incidence of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.81-1.07; P=0.30), gestational hypertension (OR 1.37, 95% CI 0.69-2.73; P=0.36) as well as on the development of preeclampsia (OR 1.45, 95% CI 0.71-2.97; P=0.31).

Conclusions:
Iron supplementation has no effect on the incidence of hypertension in non-anaemic pregnant women. In general, there is a lack of evidence for the association between iron supplementation and the incidence of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy among non-anaemic pregnant women, and further studies are needed.
Impact of geographical and seasonal temperature on sperm parameters in Indian men who were partners in subfertile couples – A retrospective analysis
Authors: Dogra Yogita , Singh Neeta , Malhotra Neena , Mahey Reeta , Perumal Vanamail 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
To evaluate the impact of seasonal and geographical temperature on sperm parameters in Indian men who were partners in subfertile couples.

Methods:
A retrospective review of the records of semen analysis from January 2009 to December 2017 that was performed as part of primary evaluation of infertile couple was undertaken. Mean values of various semen parameters were compared between seasons using one-way analysis of variance test followed by Bonferroni pair wise post-hoc comparison test. Bivariate Pearson correlation coefficient was applied to measure the correlation between age, sperm parameters and annual temperature/seasons. The logistic regression analysis was further carried out to identify significant variables contributing to normal progressive motility of sperm.

Results:
A total of 3 433 reports of semen samples were analysed. There was no significant seasonal variation in the mean volume, concentration, and total motility levels (P>0.05) except the mean values of progressive motility (P<0.001). The mean values of progressive motility during pre-monsoon were significantly higher compared to the corresponding values during monsoon and autumn seasons (P<0.01). In all the seasons, total motility had significant positive correlation with sperm concentration and progressive motility (P<0.05). Pre-monsoon emerged as the significant favourable season to get normal progressive motility level (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.04-1.68) compared to winter. The chances of getting normal progressive motility reduced due to longer abstinence period (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.80-0.93). When the temperature was more than 28 °C, the likelihood of getting normal progressive motility decreased (OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.51-0.95).

Conclusions:
The progressive motility of sperms significantly decreases from pre-monsoon to autumn with recovery towards winter, which substantiates the effect of rising temperature on the progressive motility of sperm. This is clinically important to counsel infertile patients, so that they can plan their treatment accordingly.
Testicular vascularization at two locations in relation to hormonal levels, and pixel echotexture in bulls at different ages
Authors: Abdelnaby Elshymaa A. , Emam Ibrahim A. 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
To assess the hemodynamic changes that occurred in the main testicular artery at two different locations such as supra and marginal ones in bulls at three different ages.

Methods:
Eighteen Baladi bulls were divided according to their age into three different age groups: 1 year [n=6; group I with bodyweight (380±10) kg], 3 years [n=6; group II with bodyweight (570±10) kg], and 6 years old [n=6; group III with bodyweight (650±10) kg] Baladi bulls. Circumference of the scrotum, thickness of the mediastinum, testicular dimensions, vascularity, and hormonal levels were measured. Testicular hemodynamics were assessed by Doppler ultrasound scanning.

Results:
Testicular width, length, and volume were significantly different among the three age groups, with the highest in bulls of group III (P<0.05). The bulls in group III had significantly higher mediastinal line thickness and scrotal circumference than group I (P<0.05), but there was no significant difference between group II and group III. Bulls in group II showed a decline in Doppler indices (resistance and pulsatility indexes) at both testicular branches compared to the other two groups (P<0.05). Supra and marginal end diastolic velocities in the three age groups were significantly different, with the highest in group II (P<0.05). Time average velocity (cm/s) was significantly elevated in group II compared to the other two groups (P<0.05). Both testicular echotextures were significantly decreased in group II (P<0.05). Estradiol and nitric oxide metabolites were significantly high in group II compared to the other two groups (P<0.05). Meanwhile, the level of plasma testosterone was maximum in group III (P<0.05). Positive correlations were found between supratesticular artery resistance and pulsatility indexes (r=0.81; P<0.001), while both resistance and pulsatility indexes had correlated negative with estradiol (r=-0.71 and r=-0.91; P<0.001), and nitric oxide metabolites (r=-0.92 and r=-0.72; P<0.001).

Conclusions:
Three-year old Baladi bull has the lesser Doppler indices with lesser echotexture and greater nitric oxide with estradiol concentrations, which directs a significant ability for the thermoregulation process. These parameters will help in breeding selection.
Prevalence and risk factors of infertility in a Mongolian population
Authors: Negdel Tuvshinbayar , Enkhbat Arigbukh , Munkhbayar Badrakh , Bilegsuren Khantushig , Ganbold Ariunaa , Nanjid Khuderchuluun , Readhead Carol W , Erkhembaatar Lkhagva-Ochir , Tuduvdorj Erkhembaatar , Malchinkhuu Munkhzol , Enkhtaivan Odkhuu 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
To investigate and analyze the prevalence and risk factors of infertility in a Mongolian population.

Methods:
We conducted a population-based cross-sectional study between September 2016 and November 2021. Our study population of 1919 participants consisted of residents of Ulaanbaatar city and four regions of Mongolia. A pretested standardized and structured questionnaire was used to gather data from the participants. Our questionnaire comprised categories influencing infertility, such as socioeconomic status, lifestyle factors, health, reproductive history, present status, and sexual function. In addition, trained staff conducted face-to-face interviews with the participants.

Results:
Our study showed an infertility incidence of 8.2%, with primary infertility at 2.76% and secondary infertility at 5.47%. Compared with the urban area of Ulaanbaatar, the prevalence of infertility was significantly higher amongst the rural population (P<0.001). Risk factors of infertility included advanced age (35-39 years, OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.99-6.55; >40 years, OR 2.1, 95% CI 2.62-8.55), living rural region (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.62-3.69), alcohol consumption (aOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.11-2.44), chronic diseases (aOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.20-2.38), reproductive disease (aOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.86-3.88), gynecological operative history (aOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.38-3.21), ovarian cyst (aOR 4.2, 95% CI 2.70-6.40), gonorrhea (aOR 2.4, 95% CI 1.01-6.16), non-malignant uterine cancer (aOR 2.9, 95% CI 1.40-6.70), and endometriosis (aOR 4.7, 95% CI 1.41-15.62).

Conclusions:
In Mongolia, the average infertility rate is 8.2%, similar to the average worldwide and is significantly higher in rural communities. Our study shows the most significant risk factors for infertility are age, alcohol consumption, and rural living. In addition, an unfavorable gynecological history and some diseases also pose a risk to fertility.
Antifertility potential of leaves and seeds of Delonix regia in female rats
Authors: Garg Megha , Sharma Aditi , Choudhary Manjusha , Kaur Prabhjeet 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
To evaluate the antifertility activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Delonix regia (Boj. ex Hook.) Raf. leaves and seeds which are traditionally being used by Yanadi tribe to treat dysmenorrhea.

Methods:
Three experimental animal models, including anti-implantation, early abortifacient, and estrogenic activity in female rats, were used for evaluation of the antifertility activity of both extracts at two dose levels (250 and 500 mg/kg, orally). There were five groups in the anti-implantation and early abortifacient activity while six groups in estrogenic activity including the standard. The number of implants, resorptions, vaginal cornification, body weight, uterus weight, and biochemical parameters were measured.

Results:
At doses 250 and 500 mg/kg, the leaf extract was found to have strong anti-implantation action. The extract administered at the same doses also caused a significant rise in the number of resorptions, showing early abortifacient activity, increased uterine weight, and altered numerous biochemical parameters. Meanwhile, the seed extract only displayed slight anti-implantation activity at both levels.

Conclusions:
Based on these preliminary findings, we can conclude that the leaf extract outperformed the seed extract in terms of antifertility activity, exhibiting potent estrogenic, anti-implantation and early abortifacient activities in a dose-dependent manner. These findings are consistent with the literature study and corroborate to the antifertility activity of the plant.
Buffalo anti-PDC-109 antibodies improve the semen quality profiles and in-vitro zona binding index and minimize the cryoinjury of sperm in cryopreserved buffalo semen
Authors: Ramteke S. S. , Rajoriya J. S. , Shende A. M. , Ghosh S. K. , Prasad J. K. , Perumal P. 
Published: April 2024

Objective:
To optimize the concentration of PDC-109 protein in semen for higher cryopreservability and fertility by sequestration or neutralization of PDC-109 by its antibodies (anti-PDC-109 antibodies) in bubaline species.

Methods:
PDC-109 protein was purified by applying two-step chromatography procedures. Purified protein was injected in rabbits to raise antibodies. These raised anti-PDC-109 antibodies were used in neutralization or sequestration of PDC-109 in in-vitro model. Ejaculates were collected from buffaloes and splited for four groups. Group 1 received egg yolk Tris glycerol extender, without anti-PDC-109 antibodies, while group 2 to 4 received anti-PDC-109 antibodies 266 μg/mL, 80 μg/mL, and 26 μg/mL in Tris-fructosecitrate buffer, respectively. Semen quality parameters viz., forward progressive motility, viability, total morphological abnormality, acrosomal integrity, plasma membrane integrity, cryoinjury and in-vitro zona binding index were evaluated.

Results:
Semen quality parameters of neat semen were within the normal range of bubaline species. Sperm motility, livability, acrosomal integrity, plasma membrane integrity, and cholesterol content of sperm were decreased and total sperm abnormality was increased significantly in post-thaw semen compared to those in pre-freeze and fresh semen (P<0.05). Semen in group 2 had higher sperm motility, livability, acrosomal integrity, plasma membrane integrity, and cholesterol content of sperm and lower total sperm abnormality significantly compared to those in group 1, 3 and 4 at pre-freeze and post-thaw stages (P<0.05).

Conclusions:
Sequestration or neutralization of PDC-109 by its antibodies significantly improves pre-freeze, and post-thaw semen quality parameters and in-vitro zona binding index with simultaneously reducing cryoinjury or cryodamage in the sperm of bubaline species.
Role of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Treatment of Fibromyalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kankane Arvind Kumar , Pandey Atul Kumar , Patil Manish Ramesh , Agarwal Arpit 
Published: April 2024

Background and Objective:
Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disease characterized by widespread, persistent musculoskeletal pain in association with impaired health-related quality of life. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an emerging tool for the management of fibromyalgia. There is no standardized protocol of rTMS for the treatment of FMS, and both low- and high-frequency stimulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) are described in the literature with variable efficacy. The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness of rTMS in people with fibromyalgia and compare the response of low- and high-frequency stimulation with sham stimulation.

Materials and Methods:
This study was a single-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Ninety patients with the diagnosis of FMS were randomly allocated into one of the following three groups: low-frequency (1 Hz) group, high-frequency (10 Hz) group, and sham group. Pain, depression, anxiety, and quality of life were measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR) immediately following treatment as well as at 1 and 3 months after treatment. The data was statistically analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 23 software. P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:
Intergroup analysis revealed a significant improvement in NPRS, HAM-A, HDRS, and FIQR scores in both low- and high- frequency groups immediately following treatment and for 3 months after treatment. No significant difference in the efficacy of low- and high-frequency stimulation was noticed.

Conclusions:
rTMS is an effective mode of treatment in people with FMS. Both low and high frequencies of stimulation at DLPFC are equally effective in reducing pain and associated symptoms.
Assessment of preparedness for emergency cesarean section by utilizing a checklist before and after an educational intervention: A quality improvement study
Authors: Sherin Shahana , Kuberan Aswini , Gupta Avantika , Balasubramanian Mukilan , Rudingwa Priya 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Using cognitive aids, like checklists, for clinical practices will significantly improve the quality of patient care and thereby reduce morbidities and mortalities. We used one such checklist to assess preparedness for emergency cesarean sections. Sixty-five emergency cesarean sections were assessed in the baseline period without informing the residents and other operating room staff. We then conducted educational intervention sessions for residents of obstetrics and anesthesiology and for nursing officers on the significance of each step in the checklist, focusing on the steps that were often missed. The checklist had 22 actions. The mean percentage of each checklist action in all 65 assessments was computed. The average of these values was the overall percentage of completed actions in 65 assessments, which was 78.80%. In the post-intervention period, this increased to 92.48%. The results of our study indicate that residents understood the importance of each checklist action and it reflects their positive attitude towards improving patient care. Although we did not measure our intervention in terms of patient outcomes, our assessment has helped us identify lacunae in our hospital practice.
Dexmedetomidine versus ketamine in improving tolerance to noninvasive ventilation after blunt chest trauma: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Ghazaly Huda F. , Elansary Mohamed M. , Mahmoud Ahmed A. , Hasanen Mohamed K. , Hassan Mahmoud M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims:
Even though patient tolerance is critical to the success of noninvasive ventilation (NIV), research on using sedation to improve tolerance to NIV after traumatic chest injuries is limited. We hypothesized that dexmedetomidine would be superior to ketamine in terms of patient tolerance and lengthening the NIV sessions after blunt chest trauma.

Material and Methods:
This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial included 45 patients of both genders aged 18–60 who needed NIV after blunt chest trauma. The patients were randomly assigned to one of three groups (n = 15) for receiving dexmedetomidine, ketamine, or placebo (0.9% sodium chloride solution) infusion to maintain a Richmond Agitation Sedation Scale (RASS) score between 0 and − 3 during two successive NIV sessions. Patients were evaluated for the duration of the NIV sessions, RASS, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the total amount of rescue analgesia consumed.

Results:
The mean duration of the NIV sessions was significantly longer in patients who received dexmedetomidine (P < 0.001) or ketamine (P < 0.001) compared to placebo. However, the NIV durations did not differ significantly between the dexmedetomidine and ketamine groups (P > 0.05). The dexmedetomidine group had a significantly lower RASS score compared to the ketamine (P < 0.001) and placebo (P < 0.001) groups, whereas the ketamine group had a significantly lower VAS compared to the dexmedetomidine (P = 0.005) and placebo (P = 0.022) groups and required significantly less total morphine (P = 0.001) compared to the other groups.

Conclusion:
The duration of the NIV sessions for patients with blunt chest trauma did not differ significantly between the dexmedetomidine and ketamine groups.
Comparison of Financial Risk Protection among Health-Insured and Non-Insured Diabetic Patients in Kaduna, North West Nigeria
Authors: Babandi Zaharaddeen S. , Shehu Shefaatu , Saad Ismail A. , Hamza Khadeejah L. , Aliyu Aqqad T. , Abdullahi Ibrahim 
Published: April 2024

Context:
Diabetes mellitus poses a significant health and economic burden in Nigeria. With limited resources and a heavy reliance on out-of-pocket payments for healthcare, the cost of diabetes mellitus management creates financial hardships for individuals and households.

Aim:
This study aimed to compare financial risk protection between health-insured and non-insured diabetic patients in Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:
It was a hospital-based cross-sectional study, involving 250 health-insured and 250 non-insured diabetic patients.

Statistical Analysis:
Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 25.0. Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact test were used for comparison between different groups with statistical significance set at P ≤ 0.05.

Results:
About 70% and 65% of the health-insured and non-insured patients, respectively, were protected from financial risk, with no statistically significant difference observed between the groups. Financial risk protection was significantly associated with levels of education (P = 0.001), occupation (P = 0.019), and religion (P = 0.018) in the health-insured group, while occupation (P = 0.015), income (0.012), and duration of diabetes (P = 0.001) were the statistically significant factors associated with financial risk protection among the non-insured group. Higher education and income levels positively impacted protection, while longer diabetes duration reduces the likelihood of financial risk protection.

Conclusion:
No significant difference was found in financial risk protection between health-insured and non-insured diabetic patients. Collaborative efforts between the NHIA, Health Maintenance Organizations, and healthcare service providers are recommended to improve the breadth and scope of coverage for diabetes mellitus treatments within the National Health Insurance Scheme to ensure adequate financial risk protection.
Indications and Diagnostic Yield of Colonoscopy in Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulkadir Yussuf M. 
Published: April 2024

Context:
Colonoscopy is the investigation of choice for colonic lesions and has been widely used to diagnose and treat various colonic diseases. As essential as it is, colonoscopy is not readily available in Nigeria, particularly in Kano, therefore, the study on the indication and diagnostic yield of colonoscopy is necessary in our environment.

Aim:
To determine the appropriateness of indications for the colonoscopy and the colonoscopy diagnostic yield in resource-limited environment.

Method:
The study is a cross-sectional descriptive study of patients referred for colonoscopy in our center during the study period between November 2013 and June 2014. Sixty patients referred to our Endoscopy Unit were consecutively recruited during this period. The data generated were analyzed using a computer-based SPSS version 16.0. The variables were presented as percentages and tables.

Results:
Largely, the indication for the colonoscopy is lower gastrointestinal bleeding accounting for 70.0%, while changing bowel habits, chronic constipation, and diarrhea among other indications accounted for the remaining 30.0%. Similarly, the diagnostic yield defined in the study as the presence of serious colonic lesions was 25%. A serious colon lesion is the presence of malignancy, pre-malignant lesions, or pathology with devastating clinical outcomes.

Conclusion:
Colonoscopy is the gold standard in the evaluation of colonic lesions, and no single or combination of tests is as sensitive in identifying pre-malignant or malignant lower gastrointestinal conditions. The study shows that rectal bleeding is the singular most important indication for colonoscopy with higher diagnostic yield.