bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Timing of Vasopressor Therapy in Patients with Septic Shock: Assessing Clinical Outcomes and Implication
Authors: Zaki Hany A , Elgassim Mohamed , Shaban Eman E , Ahmed Amina , Hashim Thamir , Mohamed Mazin Sharafeldien Elsayed , Abdelrahman Amro , Basharat Kaleem , Shaban Ahmed 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Septic shock, the most severe form of sepsis, is associated with a high mortality rate and increased expenses. Therefore, updating the guidelines for its management can aid in minimizing mortality and expenses. Currently, the first-line therapy for septic shock entails administering resuscitation fluids followed by infusing vasopressors when the blood pressure goal is not achieved. The recommended first-line vasopressor is norepinephrine, followed by vasopressin, epinephrine, angiotensin II, and dopamine. Although the research has shown the efficacy of these vasopressors in different subsets of septic shock patients, there is still a controversy on when they should be administered. Therefore, we conducted the present review to determine the impact and implications of vasopressor timing in septic shock patients.
Methods
PubMed, Medline, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were comprehensively searched for potential studies until October 2023. The methodological quality and bias assessment of valid records was examined with the Newcastle Ottawa Scale and Cochrane’s risk of bias tool. Additionally, all the meta-analyses were performed with Review Manager software.
Results
Twelve articles were eligible for review and analysis. Pooled analyses of data from 7 of these studies demonstrated a significantly lower incidence of mortality and shorter duration to achieve target mean arterial pressure (MAP) in the early norepinephrine group than in the late group (OR: 0.44; 95% CI: 0.35 – 0.55; p<0.00001 and MD: -1.17; 95% CI: -2.00 – -0.34; p = 0.0006). However, the length of ICU stay did not differ between the early and late norepinephrine group (MD: 0.55; 95% CI: -0.52 – 1.62; p = 0.31). On the other hand, the subgroup analyses show that early vasopressin is associated with a decreased mortality than late administration (OR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.41 – 0.90; p = 0.01). Similarly, the pooled analysis has shown that early concomitant administration of vasopressin and norepinephrine is associated with a shorter duration to achieve target MAP than norepinephrine alone (MD: -3.15; 95% CI: -4.40 – -1.90; p <0.00001).
Conclusion
Early administration of norepinephrine has a mortality benefit and improves the duration taken to attain and sustain the goal MAP. Furthermore, early vasopressin possesses the potential to lower the fatality rate in individuals experiencing septic shock. However, further research is required to validate this finding.
Relationship between the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and atherosclerosis in patients with primary aldosteronism
Authors: Li Xue , Zhang Qin , Zheng Shao-ying , Zhou Ming-shuang Zhou , Zhang Ru , Zhang Wen , Zhao Ya-jing 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Objective
To investigate the relationship between the ratio of neutrophil-to-lymphocytes ratio (NLR) and arterial atherosclerosis in primary aldosteronism (PA) patients.
Methods
This retrospective study included patients who were hospitalized and diagnosed with PA in the area of high blood pressure at the Fuwai Yunnan Cardiovascular Hospital in Fuzhou from January 2021 to October 2023.General patient information as well as clinical data such as blood norms, lipids,and baPWV were collected. Based on the median NLR of the patients, an NLR < the median was defined as a low NLR, and a baPWV < 1400 cm/s was defind as a normal BAPW. Multilinear regression and multifactor logistic regression models, smooth curve adjustments, and threshold effects were applied to explore the relationship between the NLR and baPWV in PA patients and layered analysis and interaction testing were used to evaluate potential variables that might affect the correlation between the NLR and BAPW.
Results
A total of 448 PA patients were ultimately included (50.9 ± 10.9 years), 55.8% were females (250/448), and the average NLRwas 1.9. After correcting for factors such as sex, age, and body mass index (BMI), the results of the multilinear regression analysis showed that the NLR was positively correlated with baPWV (β = 1.2, P = 0.004), and the results of the multifactor logistic regression analysis indicated that the NLR was associated with low baPV (OR = 2.5, P < 0.001). According to the uncalibrated smooth curve, the NLR is correlated with the baPWV-like linear shape. With the curve at NLR = 1.9, when the NLLR is < 1.9, the BAWV increases slowly with increasing NLR (P < 0.001), and the BA PWV increases faster with increasing NLLR when it is ≥ 1.9. Stratified analysis revealed that the NLR and baPWV were strongly correlated with hypoglycemia (P = 0.002)and there was a stronger correlation between the NLR and baPWV in combined hyperglycemic populations.
Conclusion
In PA patients, after the correction of potential mixed factors, the NLR was linearly correlated with baPWV, while higher NLRs wer associated with normal baPWV. PA patients with higher NLRs may need to undergo additional atherosclerosis screening and preventive interventions.
Complete Genome Sequence of Candida mucifera from an Otitis Media Patient
Authors: Dai Rongchen , Guan Jing , Ning Yating , Kudinha Timothy , Zhang Wei , Chen Xinfei , Zhang Ge , Xu Yingchun , Xiao Meng 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We describe for the first time, a high-quality genome for a rare human yeast pathogen Candida mucifera, from a patient with chronic suppurative otitis media. Antifungal susceptibility profile was determined, and a potential mechanism responsible for intrinsically reduced azole susceptibility in Trichomonascus ciferrii-Candida mucifera species complex was proposed.
Differential effects of sound interventions tuned to 432 Hz or 443 Hz on cardiovascular parameters in cancer patients: A randomized cross-over trial
Authors: Hohneck Anna , Rodríguez Ánxelo Maia , Weingärtner Simone , Merx Kirsten , Sarodnick Felicitas , von Gagern Fritjof , Mavratzas Athanasios , Burkholder Iris , Schumacher Gerhard , Hofmann Wolf-Karsten , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
This study investigated whether a sound intervention tuned to 432 Hertz (Hz) yields differential effects on cardiovascular parameters and psychological outcomes compared to 443 Hz, which is the concert pitch in German professional orchestras.
Methods
Using a randomized cross-over design, patients with cancer were recruited to receive both a 15-minute sound intervention with a body monochord tuned to 432 Hz or 443 Hz. Before (pre) and after (post) intervention, cardiovascular parameters were measured using the VascAssist2.0. In addition, visual analogue scales (VAS) for emotional well-being, anxiety, stress, pain and sadness were also assessed pre and post intervention.
Results
43 patients (8 male, 35 female) with a median age of 61 years (range 35–86) were included. Both interventions led to a significant reduction in heart rate with a more pronounced effect for 432 Hz (median reduction − 3 bpm (432 Hz) vs median reduction − 1 bpm (443 Hz), p = 0.04). While heart rate variability was increased exclusively by 432 Hz (median increase + 3 ms, p = 0.01), both vascular resistance (median reduction − 5%, p = 0.008) and stiffness (median reduction %, p = 0.04) were significantly reduced by 432 Hz, which was not observed at 443 Hz. Nevertheless, these effects were not significantly different compared to 443 Hz. On the other hand, 432 Hz led to a reduced pulse wave velocity (median reduction − 0.5 m/s, p < 0.001), which was also significantly different compared to 443 Hz (p < 0.001). Improvement in VAS was observed for both groups, with significant increases in emotional well-being and reduction in fatigue, anxiety and stress for both intervention timepoints, although the majority showed no increased VAS scores even before the intervention (median values 0 for anxiety and stress).
Conclusion
Sound interventions tuned to 432 Hz or 443 Hz exert both positive effects in cancer patients. While psychological outcomes are improved by both interventions, 432 Hz leads to a more pronounced but not significantly different effect to 443 Hz on objective cardiovascular parameters, which reflect deeper relaxation.
In silico Targeting of the NACHT/PYD Domain in NLRP3 Inflammasome Using Phytochemical Alkaloids: A Computational Drug Discovery Approach
Authors: SINGH NILAY , Sharma Promila , Pal Manoj K. , Kahera Ragini , Badoni Himani , Pant Kumud , Sharma Neetu , Bhist Bhawana 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
The NLRP3 inflammasome plays a pivotal role in the innate immune system, orchestrating the activation of caspase-1 and the release of proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18 in reaction to microbial infections and cellular damage. Despite its crucial function in defending against pathogens, the dysregulated activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome has been associated with various inflammatory disorders. In the current investigation, promising plant-derived alkaloids compounds have been discovered as targeted inhibitors against multiprotein NLRP3 using an in-silico drug development approach. The repurposing of natural compounds as anti-inflammatory agents remains a relevant approach for identifying promising early interventions to prevent and manage inflammatory diseases.
Method and Result
In this molecular docking study targeting Chain A of the NLRP3 inflammasome protein, eight plant-derived alkaloids renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties were chosen. Docking analysis of the selected alkaloids showed the lowest/best binding energies of more than − 10 Kcal/mol against NLRP3 Chain A, based on this docking result, which is regarded as an exceptional binding score. Notably, Oxyacanthine, Magnoflorine, Corynoline, and Berbamine demonstrated the most favourable binding energies, displaying unique interactions within the binding pocket of the NACHT/PYD domain of NLRP3 Chain A among all compounds investigated. These findings highlight the potential of these alkaloids as promising therapeutic candidates specifically targeting this trans-activating NACHT/PYD domain of NLRP3 Chain A in the context of anti-inflammatory interventions. Protein-protein interactions (PPIs) play an important role in elucidating protein function and drug interactions. To identify bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory potential, a functional protein network was constructed from publicly available PPI data.
Conclusion
As a result, the findings of this in-silico study may cause researchers to emphasize more on alkaloids when considering natural plant products for the treatment of various illnesses that target the inflammatory intermediates. This computational approach predicted ligands that may modulate inflammatory proteins and support host immunity. However, further in vitro and in vivo studies are still needed to validate these in-silico findings before clinical use. In summary, analysing PPI networks can aid discovery of therapeutic candidates, but experimental validation remains essential.
Monitoring Soil Carbon in smallholder carbon projects: Insights from Kenya
Authors: OKOLI Adaugo , Birkenberg Athena 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Voluntary carbon market schemes facilitate funding for projects promoting sustainable land management practices to sequester carbon in natural sinks such as biomass and soil, while also supporting agricultural production. The effectiveness of VCM schemes relies on accurate measurement mechanisms that can directly attribute carbon accumulation to project activities. However, measuring carbon sequestration in soils has proven to be difficult and costly, especially in fragmented smallholdings predominant in global agriculture. The cost and accuracy limitations of current methods to monitor soil organic carbon (SOC) limit the participation of smallholder farmers in global carbon markets, where they could potentially be compensated for adopting sustainable farming practices that provide ecosystem benefits. This study evaluates nine different approaches for SOC accounting in smallholder agricultural projects. The approaches involve the use of proximal and remote sensing, along with process models. Our evaluation centers on stakeholder requirements for the Measurement, Reporting, and Verification system, using the criteria of accuracy, level of standardization, costs, adoptability, and the advancement of community benefits. By analyzing these criteria, we highlight opportunities and challenges associated with each approach, presenting suggestions to enhance their applicability for smallholder SOC accounting. The contextual foundation of the research is a case study on the Western Kenya Soil Carbon Project. Remote sensing shows promise in reducing costs for direct and modeling-based carbon measurement. While it is already being used in certain carbon market applications, transparency is vital for broader integration. This demands collaborative work and investment in infrastructure like spectral libraries and user-friendly tools. Balancing community benefits against the detached nature of remote techniques is essential. Enhancing information access aids farmers, boosting income through improved soil and crop productivity, even with remote monitoring. Handheld sensors can involve smallholders, given consistent protocols. Engaging the community in monitoring can cut project costs, enhance agricultural capabilities, and generate extra income.
The Influence of Socioeconomic Status on Subjective well-being, and Education on all-cause Mortality: Evidence from China
Authors: Qiao Xiaoyan , Nie Huilan , Chen Zhi , Xu ZhenYuan , Zhang Han , Taylor Alexandra , Dieck Mandy tom , Bao Yijun , Shi Xin 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Well-being research involves sociology, psychology, ethics, economics and many other related disciplines. In recent decades, the research interest in well-being has been increasing in sociology circles, and well-being research has gradually matured. However, studies of the dependence between time-varying longitudinal measures of subjective well-being and survival outcomes are still scarce. The aim of this study was to conduct joint model analysis of longitudinal data and survival data to explore the influence of socioeconomic status on Chinese residents' subjective well-being and risk of all-cause mortality, and to assess the impact of longitudinal dynamic measurements on survival outcomes.
Methods
Using the adult data (>16) from the China Family Panel Studies obtained between 2010-2018, 67,260 samples of longitudinal data and 14,654 samples of survival data (753 dead samples) were finally formed. First, a spatiotemporal analysis of Chinese subjective well-being levels was conducted. Secondly, a joint model was constructed to analyze the independent contributions of years of education, family per capita net income, and social status to subjective well-being and risk of all-cause mortality. In addition, the impact of dynamic longitudinal processes on survival processes was explored. Finally, the individual dynamic survival probability was predicted.
Results
All three independent measures of socioeconomic status were significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being (P<0.01). Among them, social status has the greatest impact on subjective well-being, followed by family per capita net income, and the least impact of years of education. Survival analysis results showed that education was the only measure that was significantly associated with the risk of all-cause mortality, and higher education levels were associated with lower risk of death. Meanwhile, the study demonstrated that each unit increase in subjective well-being was associated with a 12.8% reduction in the risk of death.
Conclusions
Overall, socioeconomic status is significantly positively correlated with subjective well-being, and the increase in education level and subjective well-being will reduce the risk of death.
Spatial Distribution of Climate Change Variables (Rainfall and Temperature): A Case Study of Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Okoduwa Akus Kingsley , Amaechi Chika Floyd 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Fluctuations in rainfall and increasedtemperatures serve as indicators of climate change in Nigeria. However, a comprehensive examination of climatic variables and their spatial distribution within Delta State is lacking in the literature. Previous studies on climate change predominantly rely on data from ground-based monitoring stations. However, these stations fail to cover all geopolitical zones within Delta State, posing significant challenges to climate monitoring research. To address this research gap, this study employs the Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station (CHIRPS) and ERA5_Land reanalysis datasets to analyzerainfall and temperature trends spanning from 1983-2023 in Delta State, Nigeria. The statistical significance of these trends was determined using the Mann‒Kendall testand Sen’s slope trend test. Additionally, ArcGIS 10.7 was used to map the spatial distribution of rainfall and temperature in the region. The results revealed a decreasing trend in rainfall from 1983-2023. However, this decreasing trend was not statistically significant (p-value> 0.05). Spatially, rainfall has been decreasing in certain regions of Delta State. For the temperature, the results show an increasing trend from 1983-2023. This increasing trend in temperature was statistically significant (p-value < 0.01). The spatial map shows that Oshimili North, Oshimili South, certain areas of Burutu, certain areas of Warri South West, and some parts of Warri North experienced the highest temperatures throughout the study period. The study's findings will be helpful to environmental managers and policymakers in developing creative strategies to lessen the negative effects of climate change.
Characterizing Individual Occupation and Travel Heat Burdens through Exposure and Reprieve
Authors: Li Rui , Vanos Jennifer K. , Chester Mikhail V. , Middel Ariane , Hernandez-cortes Danae 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Heat exposure for urban populations has become more prevalent as the temperature and duration of heat waves in cities increase. Occupational exposure to heat is a major concern for personal health, and excessive heat exposure can cause devastating outcomes. While occupational heat exposure studies have traditionally focused on environmental temperature, work intensity, and clothing, little is known about the daily exposure profile of workers, including their daily travel and working patterns. This study developed a novel measure of exposure and reprieve dynamics, the moving average hourly exposure (MAHE) to balance short-duration but high-exposure events and capture the inability to reprieve from exposure events. MAHE was assessed by combining an activity-based travel model (ABM) and the Occupational Requirement Survey to simulate urban workers' total daily heat exposure. The simulation considers daily travel, work schedules, and outdoor working frequency. The simulation was conducted for 1 million workers in Phoenix, Arizona, using Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT). The results show that 53–89% of workers in Phoenix's construction, agriculture, transportation, raw material extraction, and entertainment industries will likely experience MAHE over 38°C for at least an hour. These industries also have up to 34% of the laborers exposed to over 7 hours of continuous 38°C and above MAHE exposure. The location of the most intense heat exposure was identified near the downtown and central business districts, significantly different from the home locations of the workers in suburban and rural areas. Formulating the MAHE balances heat risk events with cooling benefits and aids in identifying individuals with prolonged high heat exposure.
Metformin Can Decrease Serum levels of 12(S)-Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic Acid in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Li Yiming , Dong Linyue , Huang Hui , Zhou Yue , Yin Qinyi , Wu Ximin , Du Zenan , Han Linhang , Wu Jiarui , Wu LongLong , Lu Hao 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) often accompanies by diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The occurrence and progression of T2DM and DKD are closely related to the inflammatory response and oxidative stress triggered by metabolic abnormalities including hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia. 12(S)-HETE, a metabolite of arachidonic acid, is considered as a critical lipid mediator in inflammation and oxidative stress and is believed to play a role in the occurrence and progression of DKD. Metformin is widely used as an initial drug for T2DM, but its effect on diabetic kidney disease still remains to be elucidated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of metformin treatment on serum 12(S)-HETE level in T2DM patients combined with DKD.
Methods: A total of 121 T2DM patients were enrolled, including 63 T2DM patients with DKD and 58 T2DM patients without DKD. Then the T2DM patients with DKD were divided into two groups based on the use of metformin. There were 33 patients in the metformin group and 30 patients in the non-metformin group. Renal function was assessed by measuring glomerular filtration rate and urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio for all the patients. Serum 12(S)-HETE was extracted and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Spearman’s correlation analysis was utilized to assess the relationship between serum 12(S)-HETE level and relevant variables associated with T2DM combined with DKD.
Results: We reported a significant elevation of serum 12(S)-HETE level in T2DM patients with DKD compared to T2DM patients without DKD (P<0.05). Among T2DM patients combined with DKD, patients receiving metformin treatment showed significantly lower serum 12(S)-HETE level compared to patients receiving treatment without metformin (P<0.05). Spearman’s correlation analysis showed that serum 12(S)-HETE level had moderate positive correlations with ACR (R=0.3878, P<0.0001) and uAER (R=0.3198, P=0.0007) of renal function, and showed a moderate positive correlation with LDL-C/HDL-C levels of serum lipids (R=-0.3030, P=0.0014).
Conclusions: Metformin reduced serum 12(S)-HETE level in T2DM patients with DKD. The mechanism might be related to the improvement of the abnormal lipid metabolic state through metformin.