bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-based immune combination therapy versus sorafenib in the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis
Authors: She Mingjin , Wu Yayun , Cheng Mengmeng , Feng Sanli , Li Guizhi , Rong Hui 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the safety and efficacy of PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitor-based immunotherapy (hereafter referred to as “combination immunotherapy”) compared with that of sorafenib in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).MethodsDatabases such as PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched from the date of their establishment to September 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of combination immunotherapy versus sorafenib for the treatment of advanced HCC. Two reviewers independently evaluated the quality of the included studies, extracted the data, and cross-checked the information. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.3 software.ResultsA total of 5 RCTs were included. The results of the meta-analysis showed the following: (1) Effectiveness. Compared to sorafenib, combination immunotherapy significantly improved overall survival (OS, HR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.58 ~ 0.82, p &lt; 0.01) and progression-free survival (PFS, HR = 0.62, 95% CI: 0.50 ~ 0.78, p &lt; 0.001) in patients with advanced HCC. (2) Safety. Both groups had comparatively high incidences of adverse events (AEs), but the difference in any treatment-related adverse events was not significant between the two arms (OR = 0.98, 95% CI: 0.95 ~ 1.02, p = 0.34). The difference in the incidence of grade 1–2 adverse reactions was statistically significant (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.49–0.90, p = 0.001). There were no differences in grade 3/4 TRAEs or grade 5 TRAEs (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 0.78 ~ 2.71, p = 0.24; OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.73 ~ 1.58, p = 0.71).ConclusionCombined immunotherapy can significantly prolong the OS and PFS of patients with advanced HCC without increasing the incidence of adverse effects in terms of safety, but the incidence of AEs in different systems is different.
Metagenomics profiling of the microbial community and functional differences in solid-state fermentation vinegar starter (seed Pei) from different Chinese regions
Authors: Han Dong , Yang Yunsong , Guo Zhantong , Chen Ken , Dai Shuwen , Zhu Yuanyuan , Wang Yuqin , Yu Zhen , Wang Ke , Liu Peng , Rong Chunchi , Yu Yongjian 
Published: May 2024

IntroductionThe starter used in solid-state fermentation (SSF) vinegar, known as seed Pei is a microbial inoculant from the previous batch that is utilized during the acetic acid fermentation stage. The seed Pei, which has a notable impact on vinegar fermentation and flavor, is under-researched with comparative studies on microorganisms.MethodsHerein metagenomics was employed to reveal the microbes and their potential metabolic functions of four seed Pei from three regions in China.ResultsThe predominant microbial taxa in all four starters were bacteria, followed by viruses, eukaryotes, and archaea, with Lactobacillus sp. or Acetobacter sp. as main functional taxa. The seed Pei used in Shanxi aged vinegar (SAV) and Sichuan bran vinegar (SBV) exhibited a higher similarity in microbial composition and distribution of functional genes, while those used in two Zhenjiang aromatic vinegar (ZAV) differed significantly. Redundancy analysis (RDA) of physicochemical factors and microbial communities indicated that moisture content, pH, and reducing sugar content are significant factors influencing microbial distribution. Moreover, seven metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) that could potentially represent novel species were identified.ConclusionsThere are distinctions in the microbiome and functional genes among different seed Pei. The vinegar starters were rich in genes related to carbohydrate metabolism. This research provides a new perspective on formulating vinegar fermentation starters and developing commercial fermentation agents for vinegar production.
The dispensability of VH-VL pairing and the indispensability of VL domain integrity in the IgG1 secretion process
Authors: Choi Juho , Jeon Yerin , Roh Youngin , Jang Jeongyun , Lee Eunbin , Villamante Luigie , Kim Minjae , Kwon Myung-Hee 
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The CH1 domain of IgG antibodies controls assembly and secretion, mediated by the molecular chaperone BiP via the endoplasmic reticulum protein quality control (ERQC) mechanism. However, it is not clear whether the variable domains are necessary for this process.Methods: Here, we generated IgG1 antibodies in which the V domain (VH and/or VL) was either removed or replaced, and then assessed expression, assembly, and secretion in HEK293 cells.Results: All Ig variants formed a covalent linkage between the Cγ1 and Cκ, were successfully secreted in an assembled form. Replacement of the cognate Vκ with a non-secretory pseudo Vκ (ψVκ) hindered secretion of individual or assembled secretion of neither heavy chains (HCs) nor light chains (LCs). The ψLC (ψVκ-Cκ) exhibited a less folded structure compared to the wild type (wt) LC, as evidenced by enhanced stable binding to the molecular chaperone BiP and susceptibility to proteolytic degradation. Molecular dynamics simulation demonstrated dramatic alterations in overall structure of ψFab (Fd-ψLC) from wt Fab.Discussion: These findings suggest that V domains do not initiate HC:LC assembly and secretion; instead, the critical factor governing IgG assembly and secretion is the CH-CL pairing. Additionally, the structural integrity of the VL domain is crucial for IgG secretion. These data offer valuable insight into the design of bioactive molecules based on an IgG backbone.
Moderating effect of education on glymphatic function and cognitive performance in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Zhou Liang , Yang Wenxia , Liu Yang , Zheng Yu , Ge Xin , Ai Kai , Liu Guangyao , Zhang Jing 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveThis research aims to investigate putative mechanisms between glymphatic activity and cognition in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and analyzes whether the relationship between cognitive reserve (CR) and cognition was mediated by glymphatic activity.Methods54 MCI patients and 31 NCs were enrolled to evaluate the bilateral diffusivity along the perivascular spaces and to acquire an index for diffusivity along the perivascular space (ALPS-index) on diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). The year of education was used as a proxy for CR. The ALPS-index was compared between two groups and correlation analyses among the ALPS-index, cognitive function, and CR were conducted. Mediation analyses were applied to investigate the correlations among CR, glymphatic activity and cognition.ResultsMCI group had a significantly lower right ALPS-index and whole brain ALPS-index, but higher bilateral diffusivity along the y-axis in projection fiber area (Dyproj) than NCs. In MCI group, the left Dyproj was negatively related to cognitive test scores and CR, the whole brain ALPS-index was positively correlated with cognitive test scores and CR. Mediation analysis demonstrated that glymphatic activity partially mediated the correlations between CR and cognitive function.ConclusionMCI exhibited decreased glymphatic activity compared to NCs. CR has a protective effect against cognitive decline in MCI, and this effect may be partially mediated by changes in glymphatic activity.
The role of green tea intake in thromboprophylaxis of venous thromboembolism in patients with cancer
Authors: Yao Qihuan , Qiao Hongwei , Cheng Yi , Du He , Zhang Yanbin , Luo Yong , Wang Hongwei , Liu Song , Xu Mei , Xiong Wei 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundGreen tea intake has been reported to improve the clinical outcomes of patients with cardiovascular diseases or cancer. It may have a certain role in the development of venous thromboembolism (VTE) among cancer patients. The current study aimed to address this issue, which has been understudied.MethodsWe carried out a retrospective study to explore the role of green tea intake in cancer patients. Patients with and without green tea intake were enrolled in a 1:1 ratio by using propensity scoring matching. The primary and secondary outcomes were VTE development and mortality 1 year after cancer diagnosis, respectively.ResultsThe cancer patients with green tea intake (n = 425) had less VTE development (10 [2.4%] vs. 23 [5.4%], p = 0.021), VTE-related death (7 [1.6%] vs. 18 [4.2%], p = 0.026), and fatal pulmonary embolism (PE) (3 [0.7%] vs. 12 [2.8%], p = 0.019), compared with those without green tea intake (n = 425). No intake of green tea was correlated with an increase in VTE development (multivariate hazard ratio (HR) 1.758 [1.476–2.040], p &lt; 0.001) and VTE-related mortality (HR 1.618 [1.242–1.994], p = 0.001), compared with green tea intake. Patients with green tea intake less than 525 mL per day had increased VTE development (area under the curve (AUC) 0.888 [0.829–0.947], p &lt; 0.001; HR1.737 [1.286–2.188], p = 0.001) and VTE-related mortality (AUC 0.887 [0.819–0.954], p &lt; 0.001; HR 1.561 [1.232–1.890], p = 0.016) than those with green tea intake more than 525 mL per day. Green tea intake caused a decrease in platelet (p &lt; 0.001) instead of D-dimer (p = 0.297). The all-cause mortality rates were similar between green tea (39 [9.2%]) and non-green tea (48 [11.3%]) intake groups (p = 0.308), whereas the VTE-related mortality rate in the green tea intake group (7 [1.6%]) was lower than that of the non-green tea intake group (18 [4.2%]) (p = 0.026). The incidences of adverse events were similar between the green tea and non-green tea intake groups.ConclusionIn conclusion, the current study suggests that green tea intake reduces VTE development and VTE-related mortality in cancer patients, most likely through antiplatelet mechanisms. Drinking green tea provides the efficacy of thromboprophylaxis for cancer patients.
Clinical outcomes for olfactory neuroblastoma
Authors: Nakazono Akira , Motegi Hiroaki , Suzuki Masanobu , Nakamaru Yuji , Yamaguchi Shigeru , Ishi Yukitomo , Kano Satoshi , Tsushima Nayuta , Honma Aya , Suzuki Takayoshi , Kimura Shogo , Hamada Seijiro , Taguchi Jun , Shimizu Yasushi , Mori Takashi , Yasuda Koichi , Aoyama Hidefumi , Kinoshita Ichiro , Fujimura Miki , Homma Akihiro 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundOlfactory neuroblastoma (ONB) is a rare malignant tumor arising from the olfactory neuroepithelium. The standard of care for ONB is surgical resection; however, detailed treatment protocols vary by institution. Our treatment protocol consists of endoscopic skull base surgery (ESBS) for endoscopically resectable cases and induction chemotherapy followed by craniotomy combined with ESBS for locally advanced cases, with postoperative radiotherapy performed for all cases. Chemoradiotherapy (CRT) is performed in unresectable cases. In this study, we evaluate our treatment protocol and outcomes for ONB.MethodsA retrospective review of patients with ONB was conducted. Outcomes included survival outcomes and perioperative data.ResultsFifteen patients (53.6%) underwent ESBS, 12 (42.9%) underwent craniotomy combined with ESBS, and 1 (3.6%) received CRT. The 5- and 10-year overall survival rates for all patients were 92.9% and 82.5%, respectively, with a median follow-up period of 81 months. The 5- and 10-year disease-free survival rates were 77.3% and 70.3%, respectively, and the 5- and 10-year local control rates were 88.2% and 80.2%, respectively. Patients undergoing ESBS demonstrated a significantly shorter operating time, period from operation to ambulation, hospitalization period, and less blood loss than those undergoing craniotomy combined with ESBS.ConclusionOur treatment protocol was found to afford favorable outcomes. Patients who underwent endoscopic resection showed lower complication rates and better perioperative data than those who underwent craniotomy combined with ESBS. With appropriate case selection, ESBS is considered a useful approach for ONB.
Association between plasma long-chain polyunsaturated n-3 fatty acids concentrations and cognitive function: findings from NHANES III
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Huang Zijie , Tian Yueqin , Chen Xing , Wu Haidong , Wang Tong 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundWith increased life expectancy, cognitive decline has emerged as a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder.ObjectiveThis study aimed to examine the correlation between concentrations of Plasma long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) and cognitive performance in elderly Americans.MethodsData were analyzed from older adults enrolled in two NHANES cycles. Participants completed four cognitive assessments, including the Immediate Recall Test (IRT), Delayed Recall Test (DRT), Animal Fluency Test (AFT), and Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). Linear regression and restricted cubic spline modeling examined associations between plasma LCPUFAs levels and cognitive test outcomes.ResultsThe cohort included 610 adults aged 69 years on average, 300 (49.2%) males and 310 (50.8%) females. The median LCPUFAs concentration was 309.4 μmol/L, with an interquartile range of 244.7–418.9 μmol/L. In unadjusted and adjusted generalized linear regression model analyses, circulating LCPUFAs exhibited significant positive correlations with DRT performance. No relationships were detected among those with chronic conditions (chronic heart failure, stroke, diabetes). A significant association between LCPUFAs levels and DRT scores was evident in males but not females.ConclusionPlasma LCPUFAs concentrations were significantly associated with DRT performance in males free of chronic illnesses, including heart failure, stroke, and diabetes.
Motivational drivers and Sense of Belonging: unpacking the persistence in Chinese Martial Arts practice among international practitioners
Authors: Cao Xueying , Lyu Hui 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundChinese Martial Arts (CMAs) have garnered a global following, with their rich historical and cultural heritage transcending geographical and cultural differences, sparking profound interest among an international community. As an increasing number of non-Chinese individuals persist in practicing CMAs, investigating the motivations behind their continued participation has emerged as a compelling question. This study aims to delve deeper into the factors driving international practitioners to sustain their practice of CMAs, thereby broadening our understanding of the global resonance of CMAs.MethodsEmploying Self-Determination Theory, 226 international CMAs practitioners completed the Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale, Perceived Belonging Scale, and Persistence in Practicing CMAs Scale. SPSS 20.0 was utilized for conducting descriptive statistics, common method bias tests, and correlation analyses. Structural equation modeling was performed using AMOS 26.0.ResultsMotivation for Practicing CMAs, comprised of enjoyment, mastery, physical condition, psychological condition, and appearance, has a positive impact on Persistence in Practicing CMAs (β = 0.297, p &lt; 0.01). Sense of Belonging also positively affects Persistence in Practicing CMAs (β = 0.268, p &lt; 0.01). The aforementioned variables account for 22.1% of the variance in Persistence in Practicing CMAs. Furthermore, Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ Expectations were found to have no significant correlation with Persistence in Practicing CMAs.ConclusionThe formation of persistence in the practice of CMAs among international practitioners is propelled by their ongoing desire for skill mastery, enjoyment, enhanced physical and mental health, body shape improvement, and a Sense of Belonging. The study reveals that a stronger motivation and Sense of Belonging significantly enhance their commitment to CMAs. Recommendations include that international instructors should center their teaching strategies around the practitioners, helping them to find joy in their practice, achieve skill mastery, and foster the development of physical, mental, and aesthetic qualities, alongside virtues and etiquette. Additionally, building a supportive CMAs community and cultivating a sense of ritual are essential. Such strategies are intended to reinforce practitioners’ self-affirmation and group identity, thus boosting their Sense of Belonging and encouraging their continued engagement in CMAs.
Effect of computerized cognitive remediation therapy on mental time travel in patients with schizophrenia— a pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cao Junhua , Zhou Cao 
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveTo investigate the intervention effect of computerized cognitive remediation therapy (CCRT) on mental time travel (MTT) in patients with schizophrenia(SCZ).MethodsFrom August 2020 to July 2021, 60 patients with SCZ were randomly allocated to either the study or the control group. The control group was treated with conventional drugs alone. The study group received CCRT and medical therapy for 40 minutes three times a week for 4 weeks. The participants underwent the MTT test before and after the training.ResultsA total of 28 patients in the study group and 26 patients in the control group were included in the analysis. Before training, there was no significant difference in the concretization ratio of recalling past and imagining future events between the study group and the control group (P &gt; 0.05). After 4 weeks of training, the specific event ratio of the study group was higher than that of the control group (P &lt; 0.01). In terms of the emotional titer of the events, the concreteness of the positive events in the study group was higher than that of the neutral events and negative events (P &lt; 0.01). The concreteness of negative events was higher than that of neutral events (P &lt; 0.01).ConclusionCCRT can improve the MTT ability of SCZ patients, which is manifested by an increase in the concretiveness of recalling past and imagining future events.
Gingiva squamous-cell carcinoma in a non-smoking patient with occupational exposure to solvent siphoning using mouth: case report and literature review
Authors: Lamouroux Céline , Brochet Louis , Zrounba Philippe , Charbotel Barbara , Fervers Béatrice 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundWhile overall head and neck cancer incidence decreases due to reduced tobacco and alcohol consumption, the incidence of HPV negative oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is raising in several industrialized countries, especially in non-smoking and non-drinking patients.Case presentationWe document a case of gingiva SCC in a 56 years old never-smoker patient reporting low alcohol consumption and unusual occupational solvent exposure. The HPV-negative lesion was surgically removed in 2018, and the patient remains in complete remission 4 years after recurrent surgery in 2019. In 2021, the patient was referred to the occupational cancer consultation. The patient worked as screen printer for 18 years. He reported mouth siphoning every 2–3 days to transfer organic solvents (mainly aromatic hydrocarbons and ketones) from containers into smaller recipients, with regular passage of solvents into his mouth.ConclusionAccording to the literature, the frequency of solvent siphoning using mouth is likely to be underestimated. While our review did not find studies reporting longterm consequences to the oral cavity of mouth siphoning, current evidence supports a positive association of upper aero digestive tract SCC with occupational exposures to organic solvents and printing processes. In absence of major extraprofessional factors, the HPV-negative gingiva SCC of this patient might be attributable to the regular occupational oral solvent exposure. While the available evidence remains limited to formally establish a causal relationship, clinicians should investigate this hazardous work practice in patients with OSCC and history of solvent exposures.
Pre-school-based behaviour change intervention to increase physical activity levels amongst young children: a feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial
Authors: Al-walah Mosfer A. , Donnelly Michael , Alhusaini Adel A. , Heron Neil 
Published: May 2024

BackgroundA significant rise in childhood obesity worldwide over the past three decades highlights the urgent need for early interventions, especially in preschools as key settings for child development. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and fidelity of a randomised controlled trial of “I’m an Active Hero” (IAAH), a theory- and evidence-based multi-component behaviour change intervention targeting physical activity and sedentary behaviour amongst preschool-aged children.MethodsTwo preschools in Taif city, Saudi Arabia were randomly assigned to either the intervention (n = 3 classrooms) or the usual curriculum control group (n = 3 classrooms). The intervention ran for 10 weeks from February to April 2023 and consisted of teacher-led physical activity and sedentary behaviour sessions in preschools, with an additional interactive home component. Primary outcome measures included intervention fidelity, recruitment rates, attrition rates, and compliance with trial procedures. Secondary outcomes included body mass index (BMI), objectively measured physical activity, and sedentary time via the ActiGraph GT3X accelerometer. Outcomes were measured at baseline and at 10 weeks in both study arms.ResultsThe preschool intervention component had high fidelity (93.3%), but the home component fidelity was lower (74%). A cluster-level recruitment rate of 12% (13/112 centres) was attained, whilst the individual-level recruitment rate stood at 36% (52/143 children, mean age of 4.16 years; 23 girls). Attrition was 10%. Compliance varied with 90% for BMI, 71% for accelerometery, and 45% for questionnaires. The intervention group showed small decreases in BMI, slight increases in physical activity, and decreases in sedentary time at follow-up compared to the control group. Parents, facilitators, and assistant teachers considered the intervention to be feasible and beneficial.ConclusionThe IAAH intervention was feasible to implement in Saudi Arabian preschools. Facilitators showed high fidelity in delivering it. However, preliminary data did not demonstrate effectiveness. A more comprehensive evaluation across a broader population is warranted. The intervention could be revised to optimise recruitment, compliance, and fidelity of the home-based component. Successful elements from this pilot should be retained whilst adaptations to implementation are made to strengthen key areas.Clinical trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05754359.